Here's a neat idea...a community-owned food co-op. What's this mean? Well a co-op (or cooperative) is "an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise." In simpler terms, it is any business owned and operated by its members that operates for their benefit. In this case, Elm City Market will be a functioning full-service grocery store in downtown New Haven, a city which had been without one for a while. Because its a co-op, the Elm City Market will provide the food that its members want, meaning as a member you can demand more local and organic produce!!Mission: Elm City Market aims to become a valued and thriving New Haven business that improves the quality of life for its members, employees and community.
To achieve this, they will:
1. Improve the health and well-being of local communities by providing a diverse selection of the highest quality affordable, natural, organic and conventional products
2. Strengthen local and regional food systems by sourcing from local and regional producers whenever possible
3. Offer a rewarding shopping experience and caring workplace for our customers, employees and suppliers
4. Reflect the diversity of our members and the community where we do business
5. Place an emphasis on constant improvement to evolve alongside our community and membership
Construction underway (as of Nov. 2010)
You do not need to be a member to shop at the Elm City Market, but with your membership you'll be able to have a say in how the business is run, a potential refund down the line when the business is profitable, monthly member specials, discounts at local businesses, subscription to a monthly newsletter, and more! Memberships cost $200, and can be paid in-full, or a payment plan, with a reduced plan for those on a limited income. To find out more about, please visit
No comments:
Post a Comment