Meet The Locals: Cooperative Edition
You already know Menomonie Market Food Co-op for supporting local, but did you know we also source lots of products from suppliers that share our cooperative spirit? Businesses that operate with the cooperative model work to prioritize ethical practices so they can ensure their products are produced in an environmentally responsible and socially equitable way. Plus, in fulfillment of Co-op Principle #6 (Cooperation Among Cooperatives), they are also known for their efforts to foster long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with retailers; this often makes them more reliable suppliers for us and helps us keep products stocked at our locations at affordable prices. These are a few of our local vendors that are also co-ops like us.
ORGANIC VALLEY
Location: Cashton, WI
Produces: Dairy Products
Organic Valley offers a wide range of organic dairy and food products, including milk, cheese, butter, eggs, and more. They prioritize organic, sustainable farming practices and provide high-quality, environmentally responsible food choices.
WISCONSIN GROWERS CO-OP
Location: Western WI
Produces: Fruits & Vegetables
Wisconsin Growers Cooperative is a collaborative organization of local farmers in Wisconsin, united to collectively produce, market, and distribute agricultural products, promoting sustainable farming and supporting regional economic development.
FARMER TO FARMER COFFEE
Location: Glenwood City, WI
Produces: Coffee
Farmer To Farmer Coffee offers ethically sourced, single-origin coffee beans. They support sustainable farming practices, fair trade relationships, and community development, and their coffee provides exceptional flavor while promoting social and environmental responsibility.
Frontier Co-op
Location: Norway, IA
Produces: Bulk Foods
Frontier Co-op offers a diverse range of organic herbs, spices, teas, and essential oils. They specialize in providing high-quality, sustainably sourced culinary and wellness products, and they promote both health living and ethical practices.
This article was originally published in the September/October 2023 issue of our bi-monthly newsletter, The Morsel. If you’d like to read more stories like this one and stay up to date on the latest co-op news and events, pick up a print copy in-store on your next grocery run or find more news on our website here.
