How can I verify that the Co-op received my samples?

Ship your samples with a carrier who offers delivery verification or drop them off at our Administrative office.

I’ve sent samples and I have not heard back, why?

Due to the sheer volume of new item submissions, the Co-op requires up to six weeks to respond.

Should I resubmit?

Yes, six months following the original submission, unless you have received other instructions from one of the Co-op’s Merchandisers. Please do not resubmit before the six month period.

How does the product review process work?

The Co-op has a merchandising team responsible for product selection. This team chooses the products that best fit the values of our cooperative and needs of our customers. Through our Product Designation Initiative, we prioritize products that are sourced and produced locally, ethically, and sustainably, including brands and producers that are third-party certified, cooperatively owned, and owned/led by underrepresented communities.

We evaluate potential new products using several factors, including pricing, seasonality, anticipated volume of sales, industry trends, and whether the products would be unique to our current offerings or very similar

to products we already carry. Our team also must consider if existing products need to be discontinued to make room for new ones; we do this based on scan data from our stores and feedback from our employees and customers.

Why does the Co-op recommend products be delivered through a distributor vs. direct shipping or delivery to the stores?

We prefer receiving products through a wholesale distributor, as this allows for greater efficiency in ordering and receiving the products and processing invoices and payment. However, we understand that wholesale distribution is not the best fit for everyone, and the need to deliver or ship direct to us does not disqualify your product from consideration.

Please note that we are unable to receive product delivered to our stores through the mail (USPS)

Which distributors does the Co-op recommend?

Each of these distributors is unique in their size, scope of product, and ability to work with specific producers. The Co-op’s Merchandisers would be happy to recommend which of them would be more likely to consider your product. Please note that a recommendation from the Co-op does not guarantee that the distributor will consider or authorize your product.

• UNFI (United Natural Foods)  ph: 800-451-4520
• UNFI Fresh (formerly Albert’s Organics) Use website submission form
• Associated Grocers of New England  ph: 603-223-6710
• Black River Produce  ph: 800-228-5481
• Chex Finer Foods  ph: 800-227-8114
• Upper Valley Produce  ph: 802-295-7400
• Food Connects (for local producers) ph: 802-451-0538
• Provisions International  ph: 802-291-6100
• Vermont Roots (for local producers)
  ph: 888-887-6687

How do I get my products authorized at one of these distributors?

Each distributor has its own criteria that the Co-op is not involved in. Contacting them directly is best.

Can I just take my items to the store and see if the employees like them?

We ask that you do not bring product samples to the stores. Store level employees are not responsible for new item authorization. Our merchandising team makes all new item decisions and approved items are communicated to our stores through a systematic process. Please submit new items to our administrative office to ensure our team see the products.