A community-owned cooperative rooted in Newmarket that expands access to local food, strengthens markets for local producers, builds community connection, and demonstrates a more equitable and resilient local economy for the Seacoast region.
The cooperative serves as a welcoming community hub that fosters connection, belonging, and civic engagement. It functions as a true "third space" where people gather, build relationships, and participate in community life.
Key aspirations include:
The cooperative expands and stabilizes market opportunities for local farmers, food producers, and makers.
Key aspirations include:
The cooperative serves as an alternative economic model that keeps wealth circulating within the community while supporting equitable livelihoods.
Key aspirations include:
The cooperative increases access to healthy, local food while helping build knowledge and appreciation of food systems.
Key aspirations include:
The cooperative intentionally considers both the positive and unintended impacts of its work.
Key aspirations include:
The cooperative establishes a physical presence in Newmarket while laying the groundwork for broader regional impact.
Key aspirations include:
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A food co-op is a grocery store owned and operated by members who share its values,
decisions, and sometimes profits. If you’re wondering what a food co-op is, it’s a place
where quality, sustainability, and community intersect.
In a food co-op, the shelves are stocked with products from local farmers, artisans, and
producers, ensuring that every purchase supports the local economy and reduces
environmental impact.
Unlike conventional supermarkets, a food co-op is driven by values, not just profit. It’s
about bringing people together to support ethical food production, fair trade, and
community wellness.
People become members by purchasing ownership shares that provide voting rights. A
board of directors elected by the members oversees operations and strategic direction.
(A full membership at a NH co-op is $100.- on average).
Community Empowerment:
One of the key benefits of understanding what a food co-op is is recognizing its impact
in the community. By joining a food co-op, you become part of a system that directly
supports local economies and food systems. You help create jobs, support local
farmers, and ensure that your neighbors have access to healthy, affordable food.
Sustainability:
A major reason people explore what a food co-op is comes down to sustainability. Food
co-ops lead the way in sustainable practices, from reducing waste to prioritizing organic
and non-GMO products. Shopping at a food co-op means contributing to a healthier
Planet.
Healthier Choices:
When learning what a food co-op is, many people discover the focus on high-quality
food. Food co-ops are committed to providing a wide range of fresh, organic, and locally
sourced options. This not only tastes better but also offers a healthier alternative to the
processed foods that dominate traditional supermarkets.
Education and Engagement:
Another important part of what a food co-op is involves education and community
connection. Food co-ops often serve as hubs for workshops, cooking classes, and
events that help members learn more about nutrition, food preparation, and sustainable
living.
Democratic Ownership:
At its core, what a food co-op is comes down to ownership and voice. As a member-
owner, you have a say in how the co-op is run, from the products on the shelves to the
values the organization upholds. Your voice and your vote matter.
In New Hampshire, there are five Food Co-ops, locally owned by more than 57,000
members, generating $140 million in revenue, and employing about 600 people.
Because they are owned by people like you who shop and work there, food co-ops are
rooted locally. And by working together, food co-ops build food security, provide
purpose-led jobs, and strengthen the local economy. For example, on average, 30% of
sales at co-ops are from local suppliers, compared to just 2-5% in supermarkets.
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