About | Kingston Food Co-op

Our Mission

We are committed to creating a member-owned store that nourishes the Kingston community by providing access to local produce and goods.

Our Vision

Prioritize our members’ feedback to make informed decisions that impact our local community.

Create partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and skilled professionals to strengthen our network and enrich our marketplace.

Commit to fostering joy and inclusion at our store for all members of Kingston.

Our Values

Local & Healthy Food Access: We focus on providing access to local and nutritious food options

Cost Effective Pricing: We aim to provide local food options that allow you to save money.

Transparency & Accountability: We welcome the contributions of every owner’s voice and we hold ourselves accountable to our mission & vision.

Couple Buying Fresh Fruit And Vegetables In Sustainable Plastic Free Grocery Store

How Does Governance Work?

The Kingston Food Co-op is a member-owned, democratically governed cooperative. That means the people who shop here, work here, and support our mission all play a role in guiding the co-op’s future.

Member Types

Once the store is open, the Co-op will have two classes of member-owners. Each group has an equal voice in the governance of the organization. They both are valuable because they keep the business thriving.

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Consumer-Owners

Community members who shop at the store and are not employees.

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Worker-Owners

After a certain period of employment, paid employees of the Co-op are invited to become Co-op owners.

The Co-op Council

Governance is led by the Co-op Council, which functions like a board of directors.

Consumer-owners elect three Council members from among themselves
Worker-owners elect three Council members from among themselves
Each group holds equal decision-making power

Together, these six Council members appoint up to three Community Council members. These members are selected to bring additional skills, lived experience, or community representation that strengthens the Council and supports the Co-op’s mission.