The Georgia Grown program, the marketing arm of the Georgia Department of Agriculture, opened its first dedicated retail space, the Georgia Grown Signature Shoppe, on Jekyll Island.
Located in The District Shops at Historic Pier Road, in the heart of the Jekyll Island National Landmark District, the Georgia Grown Signature Shoppe will offer a curated selection of locally sourced goods and products that celebrate Georgia’s agricultural bounty. Matthew
Kulinski, Georgia Grown director, said the shop would be a place for consumers to connect directly with products from Georgia farmers, food producers, artisans and agribusinesses.
“The store is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the incredible variety of products grown and made right here in Georgia,” Kulinski said. “We’re proud to partner with the Jekyll Island Authority on this effort. It’s a beautiful location that highlights what our state has to offer.”
Products available at the Shoppe include cheese straws from Columbus, ice cream from Savannah, pecans from Hawkinsville, cheese from Thomasville, honey from Metter, sausage from Barnesville, olive oil from Lakeland, and more.
This new retail store is the first brick-and-mortar location for Georgia Grown. It represents an expansion of their established presence of hosting marketplaces at regional events and annually at the Georgia National Fair in Perry and the Sunbelt Expo in Moultrie.
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper attended the grand opening event on June 7. He commended the work of those who made the store a reality and was glad to be a part of the island’s new retail and dining area.
The Georgia Grown Signature Shoppe on Jekyll Island offers various products grown and produced in Georgia, from cheese made in Thomasville to olive oil from Lakeland to T-shirts made with 100 percent Georgia Grown cotton. (Jekyll Island Authority/Special Photo)
Harper added that given Jekyll Island’s immense popularity, attracting an average of 3 million visitors annually, the Georgia Grown Signature Shoppe is perfectly positioned to showcase the state’s diverse products.
The Georgia Grown Signature Shoppe is among seven different retail stores in The District Shops. The store is located at 150 Old Plantation Road, Jekyll Island.
According to the JIA, redevelopment of the area along Pier Road took two years and utilizes historical buildings that have been there since the Guided Age of the late 19th century. The JIA integrated modern improvements such as upgraded landscaping, new lighting installations, and inviting outdoor gathering areas.
Mark Williams, JIA executive director, explained that while Pier Road is a cherished part of the island’s story, the revitalization addresses past challenges by creating a dynamic shopping and dining destination to better serve the island’s visitors.
Mark Williams, Jekyll Island Authority executive director, speaks to the audience during the grand opening of the Georgia Grown Signature Shoppe at the islands recently redeveloped Historic Pier Road shopping and dining district. (Jekyll Island Authority/Special Photo)
“This project reflects our continued commitment to preserving Jekyll Island’s historic character while enhancing the experience for visitors and residents,” Williams said in the announcement of the area’s grand opening. “It’s a thoughtful balance of preservation and progress, designed to serve the community and honor the spirit of this special island. Pier Road has long been a hub for connection and discovery, and we’re proud to carry that legacy forward with The District Shops.”
The store opening coincides with Georgia Grown’s recent launch of its e-commerce platform, georgiagrownmarket.com.
“Our team at Georgia Grown works tirelessly to bring the farm closer to the fork for Georgia consumers, and the new Georgia Grown Online Market is a perfect example of that,” Harper said in the press release announcing the online shop.
Businesses interested in being featured in the Georgia Grown Market must be active Georgia Grown members. To learn more or to become a member, visit www.georgiagrown.com.
