community owned since 1981

·

community owned since 1981 ·

People standing in line outside a store on a sidewalk.

Berkshire Food Co-op operates with the following goals:

  • To be a transformative force in the community;

  • To serve as a model of a sustainable business alternative;

  • To nurture social and economic well-being in an environmentally sensitive manner.

The Eight Cooperative Principles

Co-ops are based on values similar to those many of us subscribe to individually, including self-responsibility, democracy, equality, honesty and social responsibility.

Eight basic international principles serve as guidelines to provide a democratic structure for co-ops around the world.

  1. Voluntary and Open Membership

  2. Democratic Member Control

  3. Members' Economic Participation

  4. Autonomy and Independence

  5. Education, Training and Information

  6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives

  7. Concern for Community

  8. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Infographic comparing CO-OP and conventional grocery stores on local impact, healthy and sustainable foods, employees, and environmental impact with statistics and a green theme.

Berkshire Food Co-op was founded in 1981 by local families who wanted to provide our community a place to shop, gather, eat & learn by offering good food and sustainable products at reasonable prices through cooperative ownership and responsible business practices.

OUR ENDS

Berkshire Food Co-op is the center of a flourishing community that:

  • Cultivates generosity, cooperation, and care for our environment

  • Invigorates the local economy through equitable relationships and support of the cooperative movement

  • Engages our greater community through education and outreach

  • Is the trusted source of healthful food for all