Welcome to our Blog!
Back to Basics: What's a Food Co-op, Anyways?
In today’s world, where large corporations dominate the food industry, a food cooperative—or "food co-op"—offers an alternative that puts people and community first. At its heart, a food co-op is a business, but it’s not just any business. It’s a member-owned and member-driven enterprise dedicated to serving the community's needs, values, and vision.
The New London Food Co-op (NLFC) embodies this concept perfectly. Open to all—whether you’re a member or not—it operates as a for-profit business with a purpose: to create a fair, sustainable, and community-focused food system. Let’s dive into what makes a food co-op special and how it differs from traditional grocery stores.
What is a Food Co-op?
A food cooperative is a type of grocery store owned by its members. Members invest in the co-op, often paying a fee to become part-owners. This gives them a voice in how the co-op is run, from deciding what products to carry to influencing pricing and sustainability practices. Unlike a traditional business where profits go to shareholders, the profits of a co-op are reinvested in the community or shared among its members.
But here's the beauty of the NLFC: you don’t have to be a member to shop there. While members enjoy certain benefits, like voting rights and potential discounts, everyone is welcome to access the locally sourced, ethically produced, and carefully curated products the co-op offers.
For-Profit, But With Purpose
One misconception about food co-ops is that they are non-profits. While many co-ops prioritize social and environmental goals, they are still businesses. NLFC operates as a for-profit business, but the profits don’t go into the pockets of distant shareholders. Instead:
- Profits support the co-op’s mission, such as sourcing locally, reducing waste, and supporting small farmers.
- They may be returned to members in the form of discounts or rebates.
- They are reinvested to grow the co-op’s capacity and impact.
Why Choose a Food Co-op?
- Community Ownership: When you support a food co-op, you’re investing in your community’s economy. Members collectively decide what matters most—whether that’s organic produce, fair wages, or reducing environmental impact.
- Local Support: Co-ops prioritize local farmers and producers, keeping your food miles low and your dollars circulating in the local economy. NLFC, for instance, sources its meat from farmers within 50 miles of New London and prioritizes purchasing from local or Minnesota-based businesses
- Ethical Practices: Food co-ops, like NLFC, uphold values like fair trade, humane treatment of animals, and sustainable farming.
- Inclusive Shopping: Unlike exclusive membership clubs, NLFC welcomes everyone. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, the doors are open to you.
- A Voice in the Business: For members, being part of a co-op means having a say in how things are run—an opportunity to shape the future of your local food system.
What Does NLFC Stand For?
The New London Food Cooperative is committed to building a food system that reflects the values of its community. From promoting fair wages for workers and ethical treatment of animals to reducing waste and addressing climate change, NLFC is more than just a grocery store—it’s a movement. Shopping at the co-op gives you the rare opportunity to make purchases in alignment with your values.
How Can You Get Involved?
Whether you’re looking to shop, join as a member, or simply learn more about how co-ops work, the New London Food Cooperative (NLFC) is here for you. While membership is not required, it’s a great way to deepen your connection to the co-op’s mission, enjoy additional benefits, and ensure the store will continue to operate in our community for years to come
So next time you’re considering where to buy your groceries, think about the impact of your choices. A food co-op like NLFC doesn’t just fill your pantry—it strengthens your community, supports local farmers, and works toward a sustainable future.
Stop by NLFC today to see what a difference a food co-op can make. Everyone’s welcome, and together, we’re building something bigger than just a grocery store. If you're not local to New London, Minnesota, I encourage you to find the food co-op nearest you!
-Dr. Sult
