For this week’s “Business Spotlight” we sat down with Renee Ryan and Judy Carrino from the West Chester Cooperative, located at 142 East Market Street!

1. Tell me about your store and any particular things you believe make it unique.

West Chester Cooperative is working to build a member-owned, full-service grocery store in West Chester, PA. As a vibrant community hub, the store will be open to everyone and will provide exceptional, fresh, healthy, locally-focused food at fair prices. Currently, we are open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and one Sunday a month, and we are 100% volunteer-operated.

2. What services or products do you offer?

We currently offer in-store and online shopping with curbside pick up and our local food program through our CSA (community-supported agriculture). We also provide a variety of community events. As far as products, you’ll find pantry staples, produce, meats, seafood, dairy products, meal kits, baked goods, sweet treats, beverages, health and beauty products, and more, all sourced as locally as possible. We are continually sourcing new products and creating new partnerships with our local artisan and producer community.

3. How long have you been in business?

We have been in the pursuit of our mission for 7 years. On average, for cooperatives across the country, it takes 8-10 years to open the doors on a full-service grocery store, 7 days a week. We took a unique route, opening our first iteration in October of 2020 in order to support our community during the pandemic, and we have kept going strong ever since.

4. What can you tell me about the culture or atmosphere of your store?

We are a place to go where everyone knows your name and if we don’t, we want to get to know you and welcome you with open arms! We are accepting, all-encompassing, hardworking, fun-loving, and care deeply for our community.

5. Is there anything else you would like to share about your store?

There are so many ways you can support. You can become a Member-Owner and drive us that much closer to our overall goal. As always, we would love to welcome you to our store and invite you to shop!