NEW ULM — The Graze Food Co-op is buzzing with excitement. At its recent member meeting, which took place on Earth Day, the co-op announced its first member dividends and a remarkable 49% increase in sales.
President Amy Gulden shared that the co-op’s location in the former Subway building has boosted foot traffic and stability. “I joined the board to help this co-op thrive,” she said. Growing up in New Ulm and enjoying co-ops elsewhere made her want to contribute positively when she returned home.
In 2025, gross sales reached over $170,000, enabling the co-op to hand out $2,700 in member discounts and dividends to 42 members. “Being in the positive feels great,” Treasurer Jessica Wesselmann noted. This financial boost allowed them to hire their first part-time store manager, Anna De St. Croix, which has improved daily operations. “Having Anna is a game changer,” Gulden added.
New board members, Brady Murphy and Zach Bernardson, also stepped in. Murphy shared, “I started by volunteering and just wanted to get more involved.” The community is behind the co-op, encouraging new vendor partnerships, like with Schaefer Bakehouse for fresh bread and Wooden Spoon for healthy soups.
Membership has reached 248, and a new exterior awning now highlights the co-op more clearly. Despite operating mostly on volunteer help, the co-op is considering expanding hours with more cashiers.
Members are interested in more healthy meals and gluten-free options. The board is actively working to find local partners to meet these needs while managing waste effectively. Longtime member Sharon Olson expressed her satisfaction with the board’s leadership: “It’s wonderful to see such growth and dynamism.”
These developments reflect a broader trend toward community support for local businesses. According to a recent survey by the American Independent Business Alliance, 60% of consumers prefer to buy local products, emphasizing the importance of co-ops like Graze. This shift not only supports local economies but also fosters community connections.
As the co-op grows, it celebrates not only financial success but also the deepening relationships within the community.
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