Co-op Principle #6: Cooperation Among Cooperatives

Have you ever thought about how much stronger businesses can be when they work together instead of competing with one another? That idea is at the heart of Cooperation Among Cooperatives, a principle that helps guide how the Potsdam Food Co-op and all other co-ops operate.

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 next value on the list is Cooperation Among Cooperatives. 

At its core, this principle means that co-ops support one another. By working with other cooperatives at the local, regional, and national level, the Potsdam Food Co-op is able to share resources, learn new ideas, and improve how it serves its members. In daily operations, this can include partnering with other co-ops and like-minded organizations to source products or share best practices. These relationships help expand offerings and strengthen the co-op as a whole.

In daily operations, this principle shows up in a variety of ways. The Potsdam Food Co-op works with other cooperatives and like-minded organizations to source products, share best practices, and improve operations. These partnerships can help bring in high-quality goods, expand product offerings, and ensure that the co-op continues to meet the needs of its members

We also carry a number of cooperative brands. Cooperative brands are similar to cooperative stores since they’re also owned by their members and employees rather than shareholders. One of the main differences between cooperative brands and normal businesses is a focus on shared benefits rather than just profits. We currently offer around 10 cooperative brands here at our store that all give a different range of products from nuts or tea to dairy. 

In our store, we carry several Cabot Creamery products. They make dairy products from a range of different types of cheeses to butter. We also carry several Equal Exchange products. Equal Exchange makes delicious coffees, teas, and even chocolate bars. 

Ultimately, Cooperation Among Cooperatives is about collaboration over competition. By working together, co-ops can make a bigger impact and continue building stronger, more connected communities.