Frequently Asked Questions about Montavilla Food Co-op

What is a food co-op?
A cooperative is a business organization owned and operated by individuals and families in the community for their mutual benefit. Co-op owners are usually referred to as members.

What is the Montavilla Food Co-op?
The Co-op is a dedicated team working towards the common goal of opening a values-based, member-owned, community-controlled full service grocery store.

What makes Montavilla Food Co-op different than other grocery stores?
The difference between a traditional grocery store and the Montavilla Food Co-op is that co-op members are equal owners of the co-op. They decide what is offered at the co-op by examining how grocery items are produced, how animals and earth are cared for, and how workers throughout the economic chain are treated. Food co-ops are a unique business model making a difference in the world.

Where will the Montavilla Food Co-op be located?
The Co-op organizers are working on a marketing and feasibility study which will help to determine a few possible locations for the co-op to be located. Keep checking back here for more updates.

What kinds of products will Montavilla Food Co-op carry?
The Montavilla Food Co-op will focus on products that benefit the health and well being of our members, the community and our planet. This means organic, non-GM (genetically modified) food that is sourced locally. Co-op products will be sourced from companies that produce them in an ecologically sound manner following fair trade and fair labor practices. Our aim is to make sure members feel great about what they purchase at the Co-op.

Will I have to own a share of Montavilla Food Co-op to shop there?
No. Just like any other retail store, the Co-op welcomes everyone!
What are the benefits of becoming a member of the Co-op? Members will enjoy discounts, promotional sales, year-end profit sharing dividends and most importantly, voting rights, a voice in how the co-op will operate and what products and services we offer. Members are highly encouraged to serve on the Board!

Can anyone become an owner and member of the Montavilla Food Co-op?
Yes! Anyone can join. You can sign up on our website or by contacting us at member@montavilla.coop or 971-208-5743. By joining today you help us get closer to opening our store!

Do I need to live in Montavilla to join?
No. In fact, we expect our members to come from all over Portland to enjoy what the Co-op has to offer.

How much does it cost to join the Co-op?
An owner equity share is $150 and can be paid either in a one payment or in increments over time, such as a payment every 6 months.

As a member-owner, will I save money by shopping at the food co-op? How much?
The savings enjoyed by shopping at Montavilla Food Co-op takes many forms – including discounts, sale prices and year-end dividends. Our co-op will have the advantage of purchasing from regional & national distributors, many of whom are also cooperatives who specialize in food buying clubs and other cooperatives.

Will I save more money if I am a working member?
Yes, our goal is to offer a working member discount. Working members may enjoy an opportunity to be more involved with day to day operations, and will enjoy an in-store discount.

Who makes up the Board of Directors?
The Board of Directors is elected from among the member owners to shape the Co-op’s vision for the future. The Board will consist of local individuals committed to and focused on the success and sustainability of the Montavilla Food Co-op.

When will the Co-op open?
The typical time frame for opening a co-op is 2-3 years. We began our journey in the summer of 2010, and we are building support block by block. Our goal is to develop strategically to ensure long term success.

What can I do to help the Co-op open?
Become a member, spread the word, get involved as a volunteer or join a committee. Our current focus is on fundraising, but as we get closer to opening our doors, there will be lots more opportunities to support the co-op.

This is your Co-op! We’d love to hear from you.

Montavilla Food Co-op
P.O, Box 18223 Portland, Oregon 97218-0223
971-208-5743