Senior Member Discount Discontinued
Dear Co-op Members,
It’s probably an understatement to say that our senior member discount is well-loved. In the past year alone, we gave away approximately $175,000 in discounts to senior members, and that amount is increasing annually. However, the amount of these discounts is now outpacing the increase in our sales. As you know from your own personal budgeting, it is not sustainable to spend more than you bring in. After taking a hard look at our numbers, and to keep the Co-op on solid financial ground, we made the difficult decision to discontinue our senior member discount beginning this July. Please know that this decision was not made lightly, and it is vital to the long-term sustainability of the Co-op.
We deeply value your patronage and want to assure you that we remain committed to providing high quality products at fair prices to all our members. And because we value the support of our senior members and recognize that this is a big change, we wanted to give plenty of notice of this decision. The last day to receive your 15% senior discount will be on Tuesday, June 27, 2023. All members will continue to receive a 10% discount on their birthday and a 5% discount one day (of their choosing) per month. Members can also place wholesale orders and buy in bulk through the Co-op’s Buying Club.
As an alternative, low-income customers (of any age) are welcome to apply for our Food For All program and our Double Up Food Bucks program. The Food For All program is for individuals currently receiving assistance from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, WIC, Medicaid, or Free School Lunch Program. These individuals will receive a total discount of 10% off every day at our stores as well as the opportunity to complete a Membership investment in four years instead of one year. They may also be eligible to receive 50% off fresh fruits and vegetables (up to $20 off per day) through our Double Up Food Bucks program. Our cashiers will be more than happy to help eligible customers enroll.
We are so grateful for all 8,700+ Co-op Members that continue to keep the Co-op a thriving community for all things local, natural, and organic.
Yours Co-operatively,
Chris Gilbert
General Manager