Park Slope Food Co-Op Kicking Ass
Fresh off the news that the Greene Hill Food Co-Op signed its lease at 18-24 Putnam Avenue, Fortune takes a look at “the rise of the grocery co-op,” focusing specifically on the Park Slope location. The PSFC is the largest consumer-owned co-op by sales in the United States, raking in $39.4 million dollars (or $6,500…
Fresh off the news that the Greene Hill Food Co-Op signed its lease at 18-24 Putnam Avenue, Fortune takes a look at “the rise of the grocery co-op,” focusing specifically on the Park Slope location. The PSFC is the largest consumer-owned co-op by sales in the United States, raking in $39.4 million dollars (or $6,500 per square foot) last year. The reason for success and the big savings? Inventory based on customer demand, requiring all members to work at the store and only allowing members to shop, and a limited selection of items within a small store footprint. And while the article says competing grocery stores have brushed off the PSFC as a one-time success story, it also notes that 200 co-ops are currently in start-up mode. That’s the largest number since the 70s!
The Rise of the Grocery Store Co-Op [Fortune]
Photo by nancyscola
It’s just amazing how people can’t see what’s right in front of them.
“If a business ran like this, it would fold in a month.”
Got a calendar? It’s September, 2010, so every month going back to 1973 has proved you wrong. It is a business — a cooperative business — that provides real services to real customers. I think the “holier-than-thou” attitude is from the people who don’t like their success.
I’m not a member, though I would be if I had the time.
re: houlier-than-thou, yeah there are definitely members who have that attitude. you just have to avoid those people, attend the initial meeting and you’ll be fine.
nah, you can run in and buy sushi or a sandwich for under $4.
By tiptoe on September 20, 2010 10:59 AM
you will eventually be accepted as a member.
Does kinda sound “holier-than-thou.”
probably wouldnt work for me since i pretty much only buy groceries for myself, and usually just for one meal a day. i dont like buying things in bulk cuz either it rots or i just wind up not being in the mood for it, sounds like it’s a better deal for families
*rob*
I don’t think they reject anyone’s application. Membership availability is limited right now because there are so many members and only a certain number of workslots. Bottom line is, if you want to join, and attend a membership meeting, you will eventually be accepted as a member.
There are a number of people actually employed by the Co-op who are paid salaries and receive benefits. Some of their prices are just “fair” rather than “good” but they also carry a stock of items you really can’t find anywhere else. Organic bok choy anyone? But not to worry – not everything is organic.
they dont really use the term “squad leader” do they!?
*rob*
their dress code is a tad on the absurd side as well. not sure everyone has to wear those 1990’s crossing guard outfits tho, but i guess those are the ones who normally stand out when you see them walking around the hood pushing hobo carts
*rob*
They won’t reject you, rob, if you stay quiet during the interminable and patronizing mandatory ‘induction’ (my word) meeting. And pay your $50(imsr) entrance fee.
The thing is, you have to work 2-3/4 hrs every 4 weeks, and believe me, that rolls around on the exact days you have tix to a concert or are out of town. Working is either fun or a pain depending on your Zen mood. Ignore the squad leader’s calls to work and do your own thing. If you have a decent squad leader, missing a shift means doing only 1 make-up, the nasty ones hew to the Coop line which is 2 make-ups for each missed shift even if you went to your mother’s funeral.
About 1/2 the food or more is non-organic, but healthy. Prices are quite low and you can save a lot, maybe less for you if single.