What is a food co-op?

**melissasue** · 08-19-2005, 02:37 PM

Hi ladies, I have been MIA for a while due to a new job yay! But I keep reading about food co-ops on various sites . Can anyone explain what this is? Thank you!

**KimSecret** · 08-19-2005, 02:58 PM

Wish I could help, but Im not sure what it is either

Im sure someone here will be ale to fill us in.

**FreesiaE** · 08-19-2005, 03:12 PM

This may or may not be the answer you were looking for. Here in Lexington, KY we have coop named, "Good Foods Coop" (feel free to look it up on the net). They sell organic foods, green cleaners, bulk grains, etc. They also have a wonderful cafe attached; but that is another story. Ok, so the deal is anyone can shop there. What sets it apart is that you can be an owner. For a set fee, I think $200 per household currently, you get a share of the store. This means that your home gets 1 vote on decisions. They also have discount days for members, so you may get an extra 10% on certain days. They are also nonprofit which means at the end of the year, the profits are divided up among the owners. We are not members, so I have no idea how much one gets back at the end of the year, if anything. This is all I know.

**melissasue** · 08-19-2005, 03:26 PM

thanks ladies for your responses!

**Kimberlina** · 08-19-2005, 04:10 PM

In general a food co-op is basically a buying club where members band together to buy food in bulk. Often, co-op members need to volunteer so many hours a month (sorting orders, etc.) to get the full discount price. Other co-ops offer the option of members paying a monthly fee or paying more for what they get, say 10% above the regular member price.

Sometimes, too, a co-op may be offered where you work. It doesn't usually work lik a traditional co-op, but you just get the cheaper price for something with a specific distibutor.

Co-ops are often noted for their healthier/bulk foods.