Local man eyes downtown Vancouver for grocery store

A local entrepreneur wants to open a grocery market in downtown Vancouver and sell only independent and noncorporate-produced goods.

Owner and founder Carl Bain is still seeking investors for the potential project called Essential Provisions Market. He doesn’t have a building yet, but he is hoping to secure the spot at 1014 Main St. He estimates the project will cost $5 million.

In the heart of downtown Vancouver, powder blue tiles envelop the former bank and Family Solutions building that Bain is eyeing for his store, which he wants to be a local grocer coupled with a cafe. The two-story concept would include produce and protein from independent farmers, an internally sourced cafe, multiple dining areas and a greenhouse. The drive-thru outside would allow for quick grab-n-go lunch options.

“Essential Provisions Market is the culmination of my belief in clean packaging and small economics in the food and beverage industry,” said Bain. “By cutting big corporations out, we actually create a platform for independent brands who are creating things for themselves and for their families.”

Bain grew up in Hazel Dell and spent his summers between Port Townsend and Sequim, where his family-owned business, Bonnie View Farm, fostered the emphasis on independent producers.

He moved to Los Angeles eight years ago and worked in restaurants such as Joan’s on Third, Rustic Canyon and Eataly, where he opened the L.A. location as assistant general manager.

Bain moved back home in May of 2022 to be closer to family and the idea for Essential Provisions Market began to take root through talking with his friends and colleagues regarding the concept.

Downtown Vancouver has had a lack of grocery stores for decades, and more than a handful of investors have attempted to open one in the growing city center. New Seasons will open downtown Vancouver’s only grocery store this fall at Main Street and West 15th Street.

Although New Seasons is set to open soon, Bain believes there is still a need for an independently sourced grocer in downtown.

“As long as there’s a viable path forward, I will follow it to the best of my ability,” said Bain.