Lyttel Piko

Lyttel Piko

For some years Piko Wholefoods in Christchurch had been exploring the idea of establishing a subsidiary elsewhere in Christchurch.  Once they had finished the expansion and earthquake proofing of their main store (with support from a Prometheus loan) they were ready to consider this more seriously as a next step.   When an experienced ex-Piko staff member, Brian Rick, approached them with the proposal to establish an organic wholefood store in Lyttelton they decided to take that step.

Their feasibility study identified strong potential demand from the communities living in Lyttelton itself and around the harbour, particularly amongst those who had a strong interest in shopping locally and minimising trips "over the hill" into Christchurch.

The proposal also attracted strong support from Project Port Lyttlelton, the organisers of the successful and growing weekly farmer's market and from the Lyttelton Harbour Business Association. An organic wholefood store was seen by these two bodies as a good fit with the retail mix that Lyttelton is developing.

The Piko Trustees were also confident that with the growing interest and enthusiasm for organic and non-allergenic foods that they have witnessed over recent years that this store would help expand the total demand for organic food in Christchurch rather than redirect it from existing stores in Christchurch itself.

Piko's track record of organic retailing success since their establishment in the 1970's together with the solid financial foundation they have built since then were key factors in our decision to approve their loan application and support this new subsidiary.