Dear La Montañita Members,
Together, we’ve reached a milestone that will shape the future of our co-op: the long-awaited new store at Avanyu Plaza is moving forward and will open later this year. After months of planning, persistence and collaboration, we have secured the support needed to complete construction and bring this vision to life.
Our Rio Grande store in the North Valley continues to serve us well, and when the new Avanyu location at 12th and Menaul is ready, we will transition from our cherished Rio Grande store into this beautiful new space less than one mile south. Between now and the opening, we will share project updates as we prepare to celebrate together.
We will continue to offer everything you love about La Mon
tañita: a welcoming and inclusive space centered on local, organic and responsibly sourced foods, with sustainability at the core. At the same time, the new Avanyu Plaza store will bring fresh ways to serve our community — a larger deli where you can grab a quick bite to go or stay to enjoy a meal with friends indoors or out, more convenient curbside service, a store design that celebrates local culture and values, and a shopping experience that’s more comfortable and accessible for everyone.
The move to Avanyu Plaza represents more than just a new building. It will be the first food cooperative in the nation built on tribal land, created in partnership with the 19 New Mexico Pueblos Governing Council.
This historic collaboration reflects our shared commitment to cultural preservation, economic vitality and self-governance — values that have long guided our co-
op. Just as importantly, this location allows us to deepen our roots in Albuquerque while honoring the traditions and leadership of the Pueblo communities. It’s a powerful step forward in our mission to support local producers, promote food justice and build a resilient regional food system.
We’ll continue to share updates along the way, and you’ll be invited to join us when we celebrate the grand opening later this year. Thank you for being part of our journey. We can’t wait to welcome you to Avanyu Plaza.
With gratitude and in cooperation
James Esqueda
General Manager