Celebrating 50 Years of Community, Sustainability, and Local Food at Willy Street Co-op: Join the Revolution!

MADISON, Wis. – What started as a small storefront in 1974 has blossomed into a vital part of the Madison community. Willy Street Co-op focuses on local farmers, sustainable practices, and giving back to the city that supports it.

As the Co-op celebrates its 50th anniversary through October 2025, it proudly operates three stores in Dane County with over 34,000 active members. Despite its growth, the Co-op’s core remains the same: community, local food, and shared values.

Brendon Smith, who has been with the Co-op for over 20 years, now serves as the Director of Marketing and Communications. He values the atmosphere and the relationships built over the years. “Our shoppers have embraced local, sustainable food for decades,” he shares, noting a national trend towards these values.

Anya Firszt, the General Manager, first set foot in the Co-op in 1985 and has never left. “I love the people I work with and the food we offer,” she reflects. The Co-op’s commitment to its community is evident in its donations; since 1992, it has given over $673,000 to local nonprofits. In fiscal year 2024, they allocated an extra $20,000 for small-scale and BIPOC farmers.

Firszt acknowledges, “We aren’t the cheapest grocery store in town, but we invest where it matters.” This includes fair pay for employees and sustainable initiatives. Last year, the Co-op diverted over 260,000 pounds of organic waste and generated 22% of its west-side store’s electricity through solar panels.

Local sourcing is a priority; surveys show that many customers prioritize local products. The connection to local suppliers is strong and valued by the Co-op.

But beyond operations and finances, what truly defines the Co-op is trust. “Everyone’s welcome here,” Smith states, emphasizing that you don’t need to be a member to shop.

As they celebrate their milestone, leaders are focused on the future. “I hope we can be here for another 50 years,” says Firszt. “Support our programs and let us know how we can improve.”

This commitment to community and sustainability mirrors a growing trend in consumer behavior. More shoppers are seeking ethical options and supporting businesses that prioritize the environment and local economies. According to a recent survey by the National Co-op Grocers, 65% of consumers express a desire to support cooperative businesses, reflecting a broader push toward ethical consumption.

For more insights about sustainable businesses and community engagement, visit the National Cooperative Business Association.



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