The Manna Food Co-op is excited to invite everyone to its new downtown location, with a grand opening on January 8, 2026. You can find the co-op at 801 Washington Avenue in Detroit Lakes. The event starts at 5 p.m. and will feature free samples and special deals throughout the day.
Ryan Pesch, who co-manages the co-op with his wife Maree, highlights their focus on local and organic foods. They offer a variety of fresh produce, meats, dairy, and handmade items from local artisans. Since 2011, the co-op has become a community staple, promoting health and sustainability.
There’s exciting news for local entrepreneurs too! Thanks to funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Manna has built a shared commercial kitchen. This space allows local farmers and food makers to produce licensed products, boosting the local economy.
While anyone can shop at Manna, joining as a member offers additional benefits. A one-time membership fee is $150, with no monthly dues. Currently, they have around 1,200 members who enjoy perks like 10% off produce and special weekly promotions.
This cooperative aims to unite the community through food. As more people seek healthy, local options, the role of co-ops is becoming even more vital. According to a recent survey from the Cooperative Development Foundation, membership in food cooperatives has grown by over 30% in the past five years, highlighting a shift towards community-centric shopping.
Everyone is welcome to explore the new space and support local farmers and businesses. Join the celebration on January 8 and discover what Manna Food Co-op has to offer!
Story and Photo By Karen Downing

