Despite the unprecedented challenges and uncertainties of 2021, last year saw several examples of co-ops achieving significant success through reinvestment in their stores — from newly formed co-ops to expansions to the opening of additional stores. Here
Paper checks are an easy target for fraud, and the recovery tasks required after fraud occurs are time-consuming and more burdensome than putting safety measures in place beforehand.Online bill payment services and your co-op’s bank can help reduce the risk and streamline payment processes.
With a $5,000 grant from Organically Grown Company’s Mission Fund, First Alternative Food Co-op installed new fixtures and a new lighting system in its produce department to improve the shopping experience and, hopefully, increase sales.
Co-ops have responded to the year’s unique challenges with ingenuity, resilience and compassion. As we close out 2021, let’s look back at the remarkable accomplishments co-ops have made to support their shoppers, staff and communities.
NCG co-ops met the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and ended the year with the strongest system sales growth since 2014. There are, however, several upcoming challenges we should be prepared to take on in 2022.
Economic uncertainty is changing consumer shopping and spending habits. To meet the needs of budget-conscious shoppers amidst the pandemic, inflation and lingering unemployment, co-ops can leverage these NCG programs and strategies to improve price perception.
Growth in eCommerce and wellness-focused products, craving convenience, eating more meals at home — SPINS breaks down key trends in the natural products industry at the midway point of 2021.
After more than a year of social distancing, expect customers to find any reason to come together for a backyard BBQ. To help retailers navigate the uncertain future, SPINS looked at trends that arose over the last year around summer menus.
Read how NCG uses the Food Co-op Impact Report to advocate for the things that are important food co-ops and communicate the value of our national co-op community to lawmakers, industry partners and consumers.
As our organizations actively engage in equity, belonging, inclusivity and accessibility (EBIA) work, it is important to think critically about our word choices, welcome feedback and shift to more inclusive language whenever possible.
