Our Story
We’re one of America’s first food co-ops! We aren’t owned by one guy with his own private space program—we’re owned by you. We’re now one of the largest food co-ops in the country, born out of the idea that “profit for the few” is boring and “maple syrup for the many” is a much better business model.
About the Co-op
At the Co-op Food Stores, we believe that food tastes better when you know where it comes from—and even better when you know the people who grew it. (Also, it turns out that knowing your farmer makes for much better dinner party conversation than talking about the weather again.)
More Than Just a Grocery Store
We aren’t a big-box chain driven by distant shareholders in expensive suits. We are a member-owned cooperative. That means our “bosses” are our neighbors, our friends, and maybe even you. Every apple on our shelf and every loaf of bread in our bakery is a testament to our commitment to the local economy, the health of our community, and our refusal to settle for “meh” produce.
Our Roots
Born from a desire for honest food and fair prices, we’ve grown into a hub for the Upper Valley. We operate with a simple philosophy:
- Local First: We champion local farmers and producers because supporting our neighbors is just good business. Plus, the commute for the carrots is way shorter.
- Sustainability: We strive to leave our corner of the world better than we found it. (Current goal: Less landfill, more compost.)
- Education: From cooking classes to wellness tips, we’re here to help you live your best (and most delicious) life.
Everyone is Welcome
You don’t need a membership card to walk through our doors or fill your cart with the best the Upper Valley has to offer. While our members help steer our ship, our aisles are open to every neighbor, traveler, and food lover alike. We’ve designed our stores to be more than just a stop on your to-do list; they are gathering places and community hubs.
From the aromatic warmth of our prepared foods section to the vibrant colors of our organic produce bridge, we aim to create an environment that inspires your next meal. Whether you are a seasoned chef looking for that one specific local cheese or a busy parent grabbing a healthy grab-and-go dinner, you belong here. We pride ourselves on being a big tent—a place where quality food is accessible, the staff might actually recognize you, and the community spirit is baked into everything we do.
Stop by and say hello. We can’t wait to feed you.
(Seriously. We bought way too much kale. Please help.)