Co-op Principle #3: Member Economic Participation
When someone becomes a member of the Potsdam Food Co-op they’re helping financially support a locally owned business. Because members help support the co-op, they also benefit from it. Whether through discounts, special programs, or reinvestment into the store and community, participants can easily get their money’s worth through a membership.
All food cooperatives follow 7 standard principles that were first created in 1995 by the International Cooperative Alliance to help co-ops stay true to their values: putting people, community, and fairness at the center of business. Later an 8th principle was created that is followed by most co-ops including us. Co-ops focus on serving their members and strengthening their communities instead of just focusing on profit like a traditional business. These values are more than just a list on the website, they are how we make all of our decisions and operate on a day to day and big picture level. The first value on the list is Member Economic Participation.
At most stores, profits go to corporate owners or shareholders. But at the Potsdam Food Co-op, your purchases help support something much closer to home. That’s what Member Economic Participation is all about. This principle means that members contribute to and support the co-op financially, and in return, they share in the benefits. When someone becomes a member of the Potsdam Food Co-op they’re helping sustain a locally owned business that prioritizes people over profit. That support helps keep the co-op running, growing, and serving the community.
But Member Economic Participation goes beyond just paying for a membership. It’s about creating a system where members both invest in and benefit from the co-op. Instead of profits going to outside investors, money is reinvested back into the store. This can include improving the store, supporting local farmers and producers, or creating new programs for members.
In daily operations, this principle shows up in a variety of ways. Members receive benefits like discounts, special promotions, and access to programs that make shopping more affordable. For example, owners can participate in the Buying Club, where they can order products in bulk at a discounted rate. Members also receive special pricing on pre-orders, such as holiday items, and can take advantage of regular promotions like Wellness Wednesday discounts and Co-op Deals. These benefits are a way of giving back to the people who help support the co-op. Members also may earn patronage dividends during years of sustained profitability.
The co-op works to keep membership accessible so that more people can participate. With affordable membership options costing only $10 per year or a one time investment of $100, individuals can choose to get involved at a level that works for them while still contributing to the larger community. Members also have the option to get their money back if they visit the store making it a risk free investment.
Ultimately, Member Economic Participation is about shared investment and shared reward. Every purchase and every membership helps strengthen the co-op and the local economy. By keeping resources within the community and giving members real value in return, the Potsdam Food Co-op separates themselves from other stores and continues to operate as a business that truly puts people first.
