A food co-op is a full-service grocery store owned by you and your neighbors with a focus on fresh, wholesome food. Co-ops also serve as retail outlets for local and environmentally-friendly farms and businesses that are often too small to sell their food and products in big chain stores. By shopping at the co-op, you become part of a community that supports sustainable food production, healthy and delicious foods, and the growth of our local economy. Ownership is open to everyone living in California.
Cooperatives are naturally community-focused and co-ops around the world are guided by the seven following principles:
1. Voluntary and Open Membership
2. Democratic Member Control
3. Member Economic Participation
4. Autonomy and Independence
5. Education, Training, and Information
6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives
7. Concern for Community