“The most creative and undaunted in overcoming the myriad difficulties presented by COVID-19.” That’s how Progressive Grocer describes the winners of its annual “Outstanding Independent” award — an accolade that honors three NCG member co-ops this year.
Many of the usual ways people connect with each other and do good in their communities have been disrupted this year. Despite this, co-ops have found new and creative ways to include shoppers in their community outreach.
In a tumultuous year that brought a global pandemic, a severe economic downturn and a resounding call for racial justice, co-ops have been a beacon of hope in responding to challenging circumstances.
What do you do when the world turns upside down? During 2020, co-ops responded quickly to the many unknowns and challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. We leaned on the cooperative principles and service to one another. And while our world remains volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous, there are reasons to be optimistic.
With millions of people in America facing food insecurity during the coronavirus pandemic, co-ops around the country have stepped up to help their communities through the crisis. Read about two New York co-ops that provided Thanksgiving meals to neighbors in need.
USDA recommends that retailers begin implementation of USDA’s bioengineered food labeling regulations as soon as possible to ensure that systems are in place and all products for sale at your store are compliant by the deadline, January 1, 2022.
While dealing with the constantly changing retail environment caused by the pandemic and the economic pressures that accompany it, co-ops continue to be recognized for their innovation and commitment to their communities.
Building and maintaining customer satisfaction has its challenges. Getting specific feedback, even when it’s negative, can be a real game-changer.
With National Co-op Month around the corner in October, now’s the time to craft your plan for a successful — and fun! — owner drive.
Since the start of the pandemic, many customers have been limiting their grocery shopping to fewer retailers. As a result, it’s more cost-effective for most co-ops to focus sales growth strategies on increasing sales to current shoppers and owners and incentivizing lapsed owners to return.
