220 East Mitchell Street
Petoskey, Michigan 49770
231.347.2381 • Contact Us
Ownership


A Full Share costs $210.  You may pay in full or by making $20 monthly installments until you reach $210.  Your Share is always refundable if you change your mind, we will send you check for the amount you paid minus a $10 processing fee.

Ownership in the co-op includes the added benefit of sharing in the net savings generated by profitable store operations.  Our member elected  Board of Directors determines how net savings are distributed to members; currently we are in a Patronage Rebate System. In profitable years, Owners will receive a rebate check based on their contribution to the store that year.

There are other ways for members to increase the value of their food dollar:

  • Participating Owners receive 10% off for just 4 hours of their time
  • Purchasing products in bulk or by the case for discounted prices
  • Member Appreciation Day, the 3rd Wednesday of every month, members receive a 10% discount of all purchases.

Your Vote

Every November, Owners elect candidates to the Co-op's Board of Directors.  The board sets goals and provides guidance for the organization.  Your participation in Board elections ensures that the co-op's development is compatible with your vision.  Each share equals one vote, so the election fairly represents all of our Owners.  To be eligible to vote, an Owner must be current with their membership, either paid in full or not delinquent in payment.  Information about candidacy and elections is available at the front of the store for one month preceding the elections.  When important issues come up, such as when we decided to switch to patronage rebate, Owners must vote on that issue.  Generally we have the special votes at the General Membership Meeting, where we also vote on the Board of Directors.

Your Voice

The co-op's board, managers, and staff encourage input on any issue that concerns you as a customer, member, and owner.  Call us, write to use, or send an email.  You can also drop a note in the suggestion box located at the front of the store.  We invite and encourage your participation in annual membership meetings, special member forums, and focus groups.  Co-op Owners are welcome to attend Board meetings, usually held the third Wednesday of each month.  Because we're here to serve the needs of our Owners, we need to hear from you.

Your Involvement

The co-op has a long tradition of active Owner involvement, and our Participating Owner Program continues to be a vital element in a number of co-op activities.  Many of the co-op's unique programs and services are the results of Owner initiative and energy.  For instance, you can become a Board Director and help steer the co-op's future course.  Participating Owners may also work at the store, doing everything from stocking to deliveries to local foods banks to outreach within the community.