What Does It Mean to be a Member-Owner of COG?

In my discussions with Willmar residents and supporters of fresh, local food, I’ve noticed many have serious misconceptions about what being a co-op member actually means. Part of this stems from the fact that co-op is a very broad term, and every co-op has its own specific application of the term “member.” So, to clear up any confusion, here is a simple rundown of what being a member means (and why you should become one!):

1. Being a member is not the same as being a volunteer. Many people ask how many hours they have to volunteer to be a member. Though some co-ops do implement this business model, as a full-service grocery, COG will have 15 to 20 full- and part-time employees to run the store. Of course, if you would like to volunteer, we won’t turn you down (especially during the planning phases).
   
   
2. Being a member is not necessary to shop at COG. The Willmar Community-Owned Grocery is not a discount club like Costco or Sam’s Club, where you need a membership card to shop. Members are investors in the business who receive additional discounts and benefits as a thank-you, but anyone can shop at COG.
   
   
3. Being a member is an investment in not only COG, but the entire Willmar community. A local store like COG keeps a much larger proportion of profits within the Willmar area, contributing to the area tax base and supporting the community as a whole. Additionally, the creation of 15+ jobs pumps even more money into the local economy. A membership is an investment in a higher quality of life for the next generation.
   
   
4. Becoming a member will get COG off the ground! As a community-based project, COG requires significant community capital to open on time. Our funding comes from a variety of sources, including grants and contributions, but also through memberships sold prior to COG’s official opening. All the fine print can be found at the COG website, but a membership is a $200 one-time fee with no additional yearly charges. There is also a payment plan available.
   
   

Hopefully this clears up any confusion you may have had about COG memberships and inspires you to become a member! For all relevant information regarding the application process, visit http://www.willmarcog.com/joinnow.php