How it works
Co-ops are generally either private or public. In a private food co-op, only members can shop at the store and joining requires a small membership fee ranging from $25 to $100. You will also be asked to invest money in the co-op, which is refunded when you end the membership. Some co-ops also expect members to contribute work shifts each month, which helps to lower operating cost leading, to lower prices.
In a public co-op, anyone can shop there, but only members receive discounts on goods. While prices do vary, products are often less expensive than other grocery stores in the area, which helps to encourage people to shop there even if they don't wish to join.
Often, food co-ops offer reduced membership fees (sometimes as low as $5) to people with low incomes.
Why do it
Besides saving a ton of money on vegetarian, organic, and local products, you get the opportunity to own part of a business! By becoming a member, you've essentially become part of the operating structure. This means you get to elect a board of directors, help oversee store management, decide which products to offer and so on. Many co-ops also offer a patronage refund -- cash awarded to every member based on purchases and how much the co-op made throughout the year.
How to get started
Visit CoopDirectory.org to locate food co-ops in your area. Read up online or call each one to find out about membership fees, rules, and what the co-op is like. We suggest visiting it first if you have time to get a feel for the place.
Nestpert: Chris Durkin is the Director of Membership and Community Relations at Harvest Co-op, a public food co-op in the Boston area. He's worked in the local food business for almost 20 years.
-- The Nest Editors
Oct 12, 2010
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