The Seven Cooperative Principles

People’s Grocery adheres to the Seven Cooperative Principles as adopted by the International Cooperative Alliance in 1995.

Voluntary and Open Membership - regardless of race, gender, or creed; participation is voluntary.

Democratic Member Control - one member, one vote. At People’s, policy and strategic direction are determined by an elected Board of Directors, which meets monthly. Members elect Directors and vote on major issues each January at the Annual Meeting.

Members’ Economic Participation - members contribute equally to the capital of the Cooperative.

Autonomy and Independence - controlled by members; agreements with other organizations must ensure that members retain democratic control and that the cooperative remains autonomous.

Education, Training and Information - educate staff, members, and Directors so that they can, in turn, contribute effectively to the Cooperative.

Cooperation among Cooperatives - work together to best serve their members and to strengthen the cooperative movement as a whole.

Concern for Community - work for the sustainable development of communities through the development and participation of the membership.