Co-op staff are happy. They get benefits. They have paid sick leave. Shocking, right?
That smile at the register costs money. A cheerful, knowledgeable staff is not cheap. Your extra dollar buys their good mood and retirement plan.
The Tiny Store Problem
Co-ops are often small. They can’t stock 50 brands of ketchup. They buy in tiny volumes.
Less volume equals higher wholesale prices. Those costs flow straight to you. You pay for the co-op’s charming, cramped floor plan.
