Consumer Cooperative

A consumer cooperative is a shopping organization owned and operated by its members—who are also its customers. Member-owners pool their resources to buy goods and services directly from producers or suppliers, often securing better prices and quality. Profits generated are typically reinvested into the cooperative or shared among members. This model emphasizes democratic control, meaning each member has an equal say in decision-making, regardless of how much they buy or invest. Consumer cooperatives promote community well-being, fair pricing, and access to quality products, aligning the interests of consumers with ethical and economic principles.