Winter weather was recently in full force in the western United States, with many Western Corridor co-ops having to adjust, adapt and pivot while monitoring safety conditions, delayed or cancelled deliveries, early closures, minimal staff hours and dramatic drops in customer counts. These challenges are difficult to plan for, but several co-ops got creative in how they responded.
 
Los Alamos Cooperative Market in New Mexico offered a special digital “snow day” coupon to members and social media followers to encourage shoppers to come into the store between storms. Over the span of three days, 52 coupons were redeemed, which outperformed the typical redemption of 50 coupons for an entire week.
 
Other co-op tactics included offering a “stock the pantry” promotion; displays and promotions for high-protein and non-perishable foods; Field Day canned goods endcaps; sales on 3- to 5-gallon water containers, paper plates, cups and disposable utensils in case of power outages; and rock salt and batteries on feature.