Whole Foods Co-op

Whole Foods Co-op is a community-owned grocery store that helps promote a local, sustainable food system and healthy community through its purchasing of local, organic, and fair-trade foods. Started in 1970 as a buyers club in the basement of Chester Creek House on 13th Avenue East and 2nd Street, the co-op has grown over the last 50 years to more than 11,500 owners and stores in both the Hillside and Denfeld neighborhoods. 

With its emphasis on supporting the development of a regional food system, the co-op purchases from over 150 local vendors and 98 bioregional vendors. It also works with local farmers to compost or use its waste for animal feed.

The co-op also acts as a role model for environmental stewardship. In 2005 its Hillside store was the first LEED-certified building in the Duluth area.

The co-op offers educational opportunities through community classes that emphasize personal and community health. And, it supports many community organizations and causes through donations and inviting customers to round-up to the nearest dollar when shopping.

Whole Foods Co-op also promotes equity. Ownership in the co-op is a one-time equity investment of $100, with lower-price options for community members with limited means.