The 8 Cooperative Principles: What Makes the Potsdam Food Co-op Different
Have you ever wondered what really makes a co-op different from a typical grocery store? The answer comes down to a shared set of values that guide how co-ops operate around the world.
If you’ve spent time shopping at the Potsdam Food Co-op, you know the atmosphere we create. That’s because the co-op isn’t just a place to buy groceries, it’s a community-owned business built around shared values. In 1995, the International Co-operative Alliance established seven cooperative principles that help co-ops stay true to their mission: putting people, community, and fairness at the center of business. Instead of focusing only on profits, co-ops focus on serving their members and strengthening their communities. An 8th principle was later created to explicitly address the need for inclusive, diverse communities, and adopted by our Co-op in 2023.
These principles aren’t just ideas posted on a wall. They shape the way the Potsdam Food Co-op operates every day from how members participate in decisions to how the store supports local farmers and sustainable practices.
1. Voluntary and Open Membership
The Potsdam Food Co-op believes everyone should have the opportunity to be part of the community. Membership is open to anyone who wants to support the co-op and participate in what we’re building together. Our goal is to create a space where people feel welcome regardless of background, identity, or beliefs.
2. Democratic Member Control
One thing that makes the Potsdam Food Co-op unique is that it’s owned by the people who shop here. Members have a voice in the direction of the co-op by voting on important issues and electing representatives to help guide decisions. This democratic structure helps ensure that the store reflects the needs and values of the community it serves.
3. Member Economic Participation
When someone becomes a member of the Potsdam Food Co-op, they’re doing more than signing up for discounts—they’re helping 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.
4. Autonomy and Independence
The Potsdam Food Co-op is proud to remain an independent, member-controlled organization. Even when partnering with other organizations or suppliers, the co-op’s focus stays on serving its members and community by maintaining democratic control.
5. Education, Training, and Information
Education is a key part of the cooperative movement. Whether it’s teaching people about healthy food choices, sustainable products, or how cooperative businesses work, the Potsdam Food Co-op believes that sharing knowledge helps strengthen both the store and the community. Members, employees, and board representatives are encouraged to learn and grow so they can help the co-op succeed.
6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives
The cooperative movement is built on collaboration. By working with other cooperatives at local, regional, and national levels, co-ops can share resources, support one another, and better serve their members.
7. Concern for Community
At their core, co-ops are about building stronger communities. From supporting local farmers and producers to encouraging sustainable practices, the Potsdam Food Co-op strives to make a positive impact on the people and environment around us.
8. Equity, Belonging, Inclusivity, and Accessibility
While not part of the original seven principles, many co-ops—including ours—emphasize equity and inclusion as essential values. We believe the co-op should be a place where everyone feels welcome, represented, and able to participate. When everyone has a seat at the table, our community becomes stronger.
At the Potsdam Food Co-op, these principles aren’t just ideas—they’re part of our everyday operations. Every purchase, membership, and community event helps support a cooperative model that puts people first.
