SALT LAKE CITY — Excitement is in the air as the Wasatch Food Co-Op prepares to open on Wednesday. Located in the historic Milk Block at 416 E. 900 South, this co-op is Utah’s second, joining the Moonflower Community Cooperative in Moab.
Cynthia Martinez, chair of the co-op’s board, called the opening a “monumental feat.” The journey began in 2009 as a grassroots effort focused on community needs and food justice. “We’re lucky to have members who care deeply about equality and local food access,” she shared.
The co-op offers a variety of grocery items, focusing on sustainable and locally sourced products. MaCorra Hanneman, the pricing manager, highlights that around 35% of their inventory comes from local vendors, with plans to increase that to 40%.
A unique feature of the co-op is its bulk goods section, which includes staples like rice and oats, as well as laundry detergents. Shoppers can buy reusable containers to refill products, promoting eco-friendly practices.
So, how does a co-op work? Unlike traditional stores, co-ops are run democratically, with a board making decisions rather than a CEO. Member-owners pay a one-time fee of $300, which gives them discounts and a voice in store operations. “Our meetings are open to everyone,” Hanneman mentioned, emphasizing community involvement.
Currently, the co-op has 2,250 member-owners, and it aims to be inclusive. Non-members are welcome to shop, ensuring accessibility for everyone, regardless of background or status.
The co-op’s profits are often reinvested in the community. It also plans to employ 25 people locally. General manager Killian Geeslin says this model creates a grocery store shaped by the community’s needs.
The journey to this point hasn’t been easy. The co-op announced a $2.8 million funding campaign in 2023, which Sugden described as a “long, uphill climb.” Yet, community commitment has kept the effort alive. Recent contributions from local businesses and foundations have played a crucial role. For instance, the Kahlert Foundation supported the co-op early on, recognizing its potential for long-term community benefits.
Opening day is packed with events. Festivities start with a ribbon-cutting at 9:15 AM, followed by music and tastings at 10 AM. The store will operate daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
For more details, check out the co-op’s website.
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