Frequently Asked Questions.

What are the benefits of membership?

Discount Everyday: 5% off your entire basket, every day!
Case Discounts: As a member, you can take advantage of discounts on case quantities ordered in advance.
Member Only Sale Events: As a member-owner, you receive special member-only offers on store products at Main Market Co-op events.
Patronage Refund: As a member, you earn your original investment back over time. When the store profits, our Board of Directors evaluates year-end performance and determines the amount to be returned to the members while also sustaining a financially healthy cooperative. Using a fixed return percentage, the more you shop, the more you’re eligible to get in return!
Discounts at Local Businesses: In an effort to cross-promote local businesses, Main Market Co-op partners with the following locations. These local retail partners offer a discount when Main Market Co-op members present their member card.
Freezer Locker Discount: A unique benefit for Main Market members, you can rent a locker to store your seasonal bounty.
True Democracy: Vote in your Board of Directors election and on policy issues – you can run for the board, too After all, you own it!
Support of Regional Producers: Offering healthy lifestyle choices for members and non-members, Main Market Co-op supports the regional economy by prioritizing purchases from many local farmers and producers

How can I learn more about Main Market Co-op?

There are many ways to get information about Main Market Co-op. This web site is regularly updated with new information, and though our doors are not yet open, we offer various ways to get involved and stay in touch. We host ‘In the Field’ tours to the very sources that will supply our shelves. And, our active members receive an online e-Pollinator newsletter on a quarterly basis, sharing events, activities and updates on the store.

What does Main Market do with my membership investment?

Your membership makes a difference. This member capital helps us open the doors of the store. The more member capital we have, the less we have to borrow from banks, wasting resources on interest payments. Members utilize the services Main Market offers and the money stays in our community, benefiting local, sustainable agriculture and consumer cooperation. This is different from various conventional business models, where private investors intent on making a profit typically take those resources out of the community.

Is my membership refundable?

Yes, the equity portion of your investment is fully refundable if, at any time, you are unable to use or become dissatisfied with your membership.

What is the difference between a General Membership and a Student Shopper?

The reduced fee is an annual, non-refundable contribution. Student shoppers can take advantage of most of the benefits associated with a full member-owner investment -- for example, students are eligible for member shopping discounts but are not eligible to vote for the board of directors. For more information, please call us at 509-458-COOP or drop by the Co-op!