Frequently Asked Questions
How are the prices set?
Co-op members pay 15% over cost for everything in the store. Non-members pay a 5% markup over member price. Members are welcome to place wholesale orders through the Co-op for 5% over wholesale cost if you help to unload the truck, 10% if you can't help. If you are interested in placing a wholesale order, instructions are posted under the "wholesale orders" tab.
How do I become a member?
Come by the Co-op during the posted "open" hours and check it out, ask questions, get acquainted. If you like what you see, pick up a membership form on the desk and fill it out, including the names of household members who will shop at the co-op. The open hours host can issue a card with your permanent number on it and write that number on your application. Leave your form with your annual membership fee of $35 in the box. You will be given the door code (not to be shared with non-members) and you can begin shopping 24/7 at your convenience.
What is the "cheese club"?
It is an imaginary entity describing the custom of wholesale ordering big lumps of cheese at a good price and dividing it among other members, friends, family off site--at least as off as your tailgate in the parking lot with your personal knife, cutting board, and zip-loc bags; you can borrow the Co-op's scale and calculator. Health Dept. regulations require a commercial kitchen and food handler card to cut and wrap items like cheese or salami on site. So for now, this is a first come, first served grab and go deal; sometimes the tempting lump rests in the fridge for a few days with a sign-up sheet on the door. Whatever works is fine. Parmesan is the favorite item for this transaction. If one wants to treat other foods the same way it's fine--I tried it with Salumi products but it turned out people want the whole stick!
Is Volunteering required?
The co-op is member owned and operated. Except for our part-time manager Anna and our new volunteer coordinator Simona who paid in barter, there is no paid staff. Thus, everything you see got that way through the efforts of volunteers. While volunteering is not required for membership, it is strongly encouraged. Members who are unable to work regularly should in any case take responsibility for the upkeep and security of the store--sweep and take out garbage once in a while, restock receipts from the file drawer, report unusual occurrences, be friendly and helpful to newcomers.
