What is a co-op?
A co-op is unique because of its economic structure and concern for the community.
It is owned by its shareholders/owners. Its sole purpose is to meet the needs of its owners and the community.
What is the Co-op Difference?
At The Common Market we do business in a different way. We are member owned and we respond to our owner's and our communitie's needs. The items lining our shelves are items that are requested by the owners not items that distributors are paying us to sell. Our co-op was started 30 years ago because grocery stores weren't selling high-quality organic and natural foods and we still have those original values today. We don't just sell to make a profit we sell healthy wholesome foods and products that are good for our people, our community and our environment.
The co-op difference is based on the belief that a community can achieve greater results by working together. Over 1000 owners have joined together to support The Common Market Food Co-op, a community owned natural foods grocery store.
Although we are member-owned everyone is welcome to shop here and enjoy the great food, products and customer service that our co-op is famous for.
The cooperative business model has worked successfully for everything from housing and banking to farming and retailing. Although co-ops range in products and services, one thing that co-ops around the world have in common are seven internationally recognized principles.
Seven cooperative principles
- Membership to the coop is open and voluntary
- The co-op is democratically controlled by its Member-Owners
- There is member-owner economic participation
- The co-op is autonomous and independent
- The co-op provides education, training and information
- There is cooperation among co-operatives
- The co-op has a genuine concern for the community
