Your Co-op
In the Market
Our Community
Ownership
Health
Food in the News
Contact

Ownership

If you’ve ever wanted to co-own a democratically operated, values-driven business, ownership may be for you.

In a co-op, owners provide capital by purchasing shares (or paying into their equity investment). Capital allows us to purchase inventory and equipment, finance operations, and minimize outside debt.

Ownership at Central Co-op costs $60. This investment provides the co-op with needed capital and gives the legal owner the rights and responsibilities of ownership. And there’s no risk. Co-op equity is an investment, so it’s fully refundable. Join now.

Beyond economic benefits, member-owners get to feel good about supporting a local, independent business, guided by the needs of the people it serves.

The co-op offers free membership for those who are homeless, physically or mentally challenged, or living on a restricted income due to age, veteran status, job loss, or other financial hardship. In this way, the co-op gives everyone an accessible way to join. For more information about exempt membership, contact owner services.

Owner benefits:

Upon joining, owners are eligible to:

  • Vote in board of trustees elections and upon policy (excluding exempt members)
  • Run for a seat on the board of trustees (excluding exempt members)
  • Receive our bi-monthly newsletter, Central Register, complete with monthly 10% discount coupons
  • Receive member advantage pricing at other North American food cooperatives
  • Utilize a 5% purchase discount on owner appreciation day (second Wednesday of each month)
  • Utilize a 5% purchase discount on exempt member day (not applicable to vested owners)
  • Central Basics and other owner-only sales pricing
  • Receive a 5% item discount on Madison Market-brand supplements
  • Receive discounts at local businesses
  • Receive 10% off all books (excluding blank books, journals, etc.)

Owner responsibilities: