During the Co-op Election period this past April, we received a very thoughtful email from a long-time member regarding a potential bylaws change on the ballot. Previously, joining the Co-op required purchasing 10 shares of stock at $5 each, which could be a financial burden for some people in our community. When the votes were counted, our members overwhelmingly voted to change the bylaws, making it easier than ever to join. Now, individuals can become Co-op members by either purchasing shares of stock or receiving shares from departing members. This share-transfer eligibility is determined by Food for All program eligibility, one of our food access initiatives.
While our new bylaws are a significant step, the member who emailed me raised a crucial point: if someone lacks the financial resources to become a member, would they realistically have the resources to shop at the Co-op at all, given that we are often perceived as more expensive?
This excellent question prompted a broader conversation about food prices, a complex topic often misunderstood despite our many savings opportunities (check the tab at the top of our website!). Today, I hope to offer some clarity.
Our New and Improved Bylaws
Our primary goal in changing the bylaws was to make membership accessible to everyone who desired it, without imposing our own priorities. We proudly accept WIC and EBT, and our Double-Up program effectively halves the cost of fresh produce for those using these benefits. For these individuals, membership offers the added benefit of accruing rewards redeemable for discounts.
Additionally, full member-ownership is required to run for our Board of Directors, and we believe financial limitations shouldn’t prevent participation in our democratic process.
How We Price Products
Our pricing reflects our commitment to supporting local farmers and our local economy, alongside the challenges of being a small, independent grocer. We often cannot even purchase some products at the prices our competitors sell them for due to a lack of buying power and thin margins. Even for products where we cannot compete on price, we offer them as a convenience for members who prefer not to navigate traffic on 12A or make multiple stops.
Fair Prices for Farmers
A core objective is to support local farms and businesses by paying farmers and producers what they are worth. Unlike competitors who claim to support “local” but undercut farmer value or source products from across the East Coast, our local products genuinely come from your nearby neighbors.
Taking Care of Employees
Another core value centers on our employees. We strive to pay them a livable wage and support them in an incredibly expensive area. Unlike many chain store employees who rarely receive raises or health insurance, we provide some of the best benefits in the industry. This is why many long-time employees have built true careers at the Co-op, while our big-box competitors often rely on a revolving door of employees working multiple part-time jobs to survive.
Who Pays the Real Cost?
At any food co-op, we ask consumers to consider the complete picture when evaluating price. Low prices at large chain stores often come at the expense of underpaid employees, food-industry workers with no benefits, and undercut “local” farmers who may be states away.
In short, low prices often come on the backs of exploited people.
Community Partnerships
We recognize the current challenges everyone faces with rising costs and economic uncertainty. We are steadfast in our belief that to have the most impact, we must focus on supporting and stabilizing local farmers, producers, employees, and our economy.
Our Co-op is a living entity, encompassing thousands of people, businesses, and considerations, and we are earnestly striving to be a good neighbor and partner.
Want to Learn More?
I sincerely appreciate the email that sparked this topic and always welcome the opportunity to share these insights. While it may not change everything for everyone, I hope it provides a better understanding of our “why.”
Want to learn more or take a deeper dive? Please reach out to me! Especially if you’re a member-owner. This is your business, and you have every right to fully understand our financial position, goals, and vision for the future.
Dawn Archambeault is the Co-op’s Director of Marketing & Consumer Relations.
