How does a food co-op differ from a normal grocery store?
A normal grocery store is typically owned by an individual, a family, or a corporation. A co-op is owned by a group of people who live in a community or neighborhood. Co-op members all have equal stake in the store. All members invest a small amount of money in the co-op when they join, which is refundable if they decide to leave at some point in the future. Because of the unique way in which co-ops are funded and operated, they are generally able to offer goods at substantially lower prices than normal grocery stores. Food co-op’s are generally concerned with community involvement and monetary savings for owner-members. Often, food co-operatives focus on organic or sustainable food practices at reasonable prices.
