What is the Nashville Food Co-op?
We often get asked if we are a small farm, CSA, or community garden — but we are none of the above! We are a cooperative grocery store working to bring local food options to Nashville year round.
The Nashville Food Co-op is a community-owned, full service, cooperative grocery store in the works of gaining the startup membership and collateral needed to open its doors.
When will we open?
In order to open our doors, we must reach 1,200 Co-Owners. The best thing you can do to ensure that we open as quickly as possible is invest in membership and spread the word to your friends to do the same.
Where will we be located?
We don’t have a set location as of yet. When we get closer to 600 Co-Owners, those who have joined the co-op will have a say in where we end up. We will also use data from a market study to help pinpoint areas of town where a co-op would succeed.
How much does it cost to join the co-op?
Member-Ownership is a one-time investment of $250 per household. This can be paid in full or in monthly installments using a payment plan.
Do you have to be a member to shop at the co-op?
No! When we open our doors, all will be welcome to shop at our store. Members, however, will receive discounts & other benefits.
What is a co-op?
A co-op is a business, usually incorporated, that sells goods and services. A co-op exists primarily for the benefit of its members. Many co-ops also support other parts of the community through various programs and philanthropic activities as part of their commitment to cooperative values & principles.
Who controls a co-op?
In a cooperative, Co-Owners democratically control the direction of the business. In most co-ops, each member gets one vote. Members elect a Board of Directors to monitor the business, set goals, and hire management to operate their business. Ultimately, the Board is accountable to the Co-Owners for its decisions.