As the holiday season approaches, upwards of 50% of grocery shoppers indicate that they might try a different store for at least part of their holiday shopping. These seasonal grocery explorers can be one-time visitors, or they can be your co-op’s committed member-owners of the future. It’s the time of year to let the co-op difference shine.
Thanks to everyone who attended Focus on Fresh 2025! For those who requested Gabby Davis’s inspirational video message, we’re happy to share it with you here.
Providing thoughtful and/or direct responses when transgender, nonbinary or gender-expansive individuals are misgendered or deadnamed is crucial for fostering an inclusive and affirming environment. Driven by a fervent desire to provide support to frontline workers at co-ops, this article shares examples drawn from convenings of LGBTQIA+ cooperators attending affinity groups offered during NCG conferences in 2023.
Hiring and recruiting continue to be challenging, and simply posting an open position and waiting for candidates to apply is no longer a viable strategy in the current labor market. NCG has compiled several recommendations to help you build your applicant pool.
Co+nvergence is back in 2025! We are preparing to welcome co-op promotions liaisons, grocery and wellness staff to St. Paul for an exciting conference filled with opportunities for education, networking, inspiration. Find out what the buzz is about and why Co+nvergence is loved by your co-ops, NCG staff and the natural products industry.
Let’s be real — these are not easy days to show up at work, let alone show up with a smile, a helpful attitude and the energy it takes to serve others. It’s okay to acknowledge the emotions you’re feeling, to choose care and to practice community at our co-ops.
Co+op U is a one-stop shop for NCG training and professional development programs tailored specifically for your retail grocery co-op.
NCG’s 2025 Focus on Fresh conference for co-op fresh department staff offers an energizing event experience that features educational content tailored to produce, meat/seafood and prepared food departments, plenty of opportunities to build connections with peers, and our biggest Vendor Showcase ever!
Small businesses like co-ops have limited time and resources to commit to ensuring compliance with federal, state and local regulations. But it’s important to take compliance seriously to reduce the risk and costs of penalties for noncompliance. We’ve identified some regulations applicable to co-ops, along with ways to proactively address and remain compliant.
Get ready for a year filled with learning, collaboration and inspiration at NCG’s conferences and events! Mark your calendar for these opportunities to connect with your peers from other co-ops around the country and build skills to thrive in your role at your co-op.
