Whole Foods Offers Local Vendors

    Local support was visible at Whole Foods’ new location in Wainscott last week, with the names of farms and local vendors whose produce the chain is selling  displayed indoors, and the vendors themselves setting up in the parking lot of the former Ford dealership on Montauk Highway.

    Mark Stewart, the general manager of Eli’s Bakery, said that Whole Foods was “trying to show support and get the summer started on a good note. They also want to sell some bread,” he added, smiling. Mr. Stewart was on site last Thursday to do just that, as well as deliver soups, pies, pecan crisps, and cookies to the site.

    Taking advantage of the fresh bread from the tented vendor was Lovella Beres of Sagaponack, who said she was happy to see local vendors at the market, and hopes Whole Foods decides to stay put.

    “We will be here next week,” said Tatiana Monteiro Teixeira, the founder and co-owner of Plain-T of Southampton, which will sell its iced teas at the site. Other vendors bustling around the place last week said the same, and a representative of Whole Foods said that “everyone here should be in the market shortly.”

    Ellenka Baumrind, the president of Ellie’s Country Delights of East Hampton, said her jarred stews are currently sold in Whole Foods’ “Mid-Atlantic region.” Lisa Tremblay, of Joe and Liza’s ice cream, was simply pleased that her frozen goods will be in the Wainscott store shortly, as was Anke Albert, whose Amagansett company, Anke’s Fit Bakery, will soon be selling its flour-free cookies, cakes, and breads.

    Other East End food sellers offered are Fat Ass Fudge in Springs, Open Minded Organics in Bridgehampton,  and Post Pies in Water Mill.