Co-op store provides local alternative produce

The next time you’re downtown and in need of a snack, consider stopping in at the Main Market Co-op at 44 W. Main. You will be greeted by Jo, or one of the many other volunteers who believe in Main Market’s mission.

Not only is it the only grocery store in downtown Spokane, but it’s also one of the few grocery stores that provides a wide selection of local and organic seasonal produce, bulk foods, baked goods, personal care items, pet supplies and take-out items prepared by in-house chef, Bryan McDirmid.

Main Market Co-op opened its doors to the public on Jan. 21. The grand opening was held on Feb. 16 with an entire week of events following the opening. Poet Joy Harjo read at the store’s ribbon-cutting, where the community table near the deli is carved with her poem “Perhaps the World Ends Here.”

The market is housed in the old Goodyear Tire building on Main and Browne. It is built with energy-efficiency in mind: the hot water tank is heated by tubes collecting heat created by the refrigerators and freezers. Rainwater is caught by gutters to nourish the produce growing on the store’s rooftop garden. When checking out at the register, the cashier asks if you would like to recycle or keep your receipt.

Although the store emphasizes local produce, organic and natural brands are incorporated into the mix, including brands such as Kashi and Newman’s Own. Jennifer Hall, the co-ops community food builder, said that their store’s goal is to create “an ever-increasing presence of local.”

“A co-operative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise,” according to the International Co-operative Alliance Web site.

Instead of focusing on making money, Co-ops focus on making sure their customers and members are pleased with the business.

The store is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. If you would like to become a member of Main Market Co-op, there are several membership options, including a reduced annual fee for students of $30 per year.

“If you’re a member, you’re an owner and you want the co-op to succeed,” Hall said.
By becoming a member, shoppers can contribute to the finances of the store, by providing capital so that the store doesn’t have to rely on money borrowed from banks, which they would have to pay interest on. Members can be involved in decision making, including policy votes. Members will also receive money back through a fixed interest percentage and get discounts on certain store products, according to the Main Market Co-op Web site.

Caitlin Richmond also contributed to this article.
Contact Stephanie Jordan-Thompson at stephanie.jordanthompson@whitworthian.com.

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