Frequently asked questions

About our store

What is a food co-op?

A food co-op is a member-owned grocery store. Instead of being owned by one person or company, the Kingston Food Co-op is owned and governed by its members through an elected Council.

Our purpose is to serve our members and community. When the co-op is financially successful, profits are reinvested into the co-op or returned to members through things like patronage dividends, discounts, and special events. The Kingston Food Co-op is not a nonprofit, we are a cooperative corporation.

When will the store open?
Opening a food co-op is a long-term process that typically takes 4–10 years. The Kingston Food Co-op has been actively working toward opening since 2018. Our timeline depends on several factors, including:
  • Growing our membership base to ensure our customer base will support a financially viable business
  • Securing a location that suits our business and members’ needs

Membership

What are the benefits of becoming a Coop member?

When you join the Kingston Food Co-op, you’re a member for life.

Benefits include:

  • A voice in a community-owned grocery store
    Voting rights and the ability to run for Council
  • Input on store design and the products we carry
  • Access to future member discounts, events, and potential patronage dividends
  • Supporting local food systems and Kingston’s economy
  • Every new member strengthens the Co-op and brings us closer to opening.
How much does a membership cost?

A Kingston Food Co-op membership costs $0–$150 per adult. This is a one-time investment and there are no annual fees.  Membership lasts for a lifetime.

Each adult who shops should have their own membership, and flexible payment plans are available.

*Please note that co-op members may vote to adjust membership fees in the future.

Access and equity

What is a Solidarity Membership?
A Solidarity Membership helps remove financial barriers to joining the Kingston Food Co-op. These memberships are available at a reduced cost or free ($25–$50) and include the same rights and benefits as a standard membership. They’re one way we work toward a more inclusive, community-owned co-op.
Will members be required to work at the co-op?

There is currently no work requirement for membership at this time, but there are plenty of volunteer opportunities. However, Co-ops across the country have implemented minimal work requirements for co-op members and have seen There are several reasons we weren’t able to pursue member work requirements for our co-op related to NYS Labor Laws, liability, administrative burden and equity.

Will the co-op accept SNAP benefits?
Yes! The co-op will accept SNAP benefits when the storefront opens.
Will I have to be a member to shop at the co-op?
No; our community-owned grocery store will be open to the public. However, only members will be eligible for special discounts and member appreciation events.
Do I have to live in Kingston to become a member of the co-op?
Nope! Any New York state resident is eligible to become a member — and once you’ve purchased your membership, you are a member for life!
What will I be able to buy at the co-op?
Once our storefront opens, we will stock our retail space with a variety of fresh produce, bulk items, grocery staples, meat, dairy, frozen, deli, wellness items, etc., — the same types of things you can expect to find at other mid-size grocery stores. We'll be prioritizing healthful and local products, as well as brands and products that our community wants.

Getting involved

How do I find out about events happening at the co-op?How do I find out about events happening at the co-op?

Our e-newsletters are the best way to stay up to date about in-person and virtual events. You can also find dates and location information for in-person events, as well as Zoom link information on website under Get Involved section.

How do I get in touch with the Council?

Our Council represents the Co-op and is accountable to our membership. You can stay connected by attending our quarterly open Council meetings and by reaching out with questions, ideas, or feedback.

You can reach out to us via email hello@kingstonfoodcoop.com