Strengthening Support for the Local Economy

As locally-owned businesses with a strong “concern for community,” co-ops have an interest in supporting the local economy on which they also rely. Co-ops are leaders in selling local products and many have taken on an informal role as incubator for local farmers and producers. The strong tie between co-ops and local products is viewed as a point of difference by consumers, and building loyalty with suppliers can help ensure the availability of future supply. In a time when other retailers are trying to profit from general use of “local” marketing, it is important that co-ops not cede this competitive advantage and instead make clear to consumers what authentic support for local looks like.