The Co-op was formally incorporated in 2004. Today, more than 1000 members enjoy abundant, healthy, earth-friendly grocery foods and products. Worker members enjoy a fair wage, and local farms and businesses are steadily growing to supply the store’s needs. Through the commitment and support of our community, the Co-op now owns the land where it stands, ensuring it’ll remain an important social hub and marketplace on our little island well into the future.
Cortes Natural Food Co-op is a community-owned cooperative business. We’re governed by a Board of Directors, including designated staff positions and members from the wider Cortes Island community, selected at the annual summer general meeting. We aim to remain financially strong for our community of member-owners, rather than generating profit for a single owner.
We operate on the Seven Cooperative Principles set out by the International Cooperative Alliance:
- Voluntary and open membership
- Democratic member control
- Member economic participation
- Autonomy and independence
- Education, training & information
- Cooperation among cooperatives
- Concern for the community
Fresh / Organic / Local
About 10% of our $1.8 million annual sales are from local products and the nearly $370,000 we pay our staff goes directly back into the local economy.
Members & Friends
Today, more than 1000 members enjoy abundant, healthy, earth-friendly grocery foods and products. Worker members enjoy a fair wage, and local farms and businesses are steadily growing to supply the store’s needs.