The Co-op’s Produce Department started small. So small that it fit on a grocery cart. In season, this tiny department offered locally grown, organic fruits and veggies, doubling in size to two grocery carts!

The seeds of success were sewn in those early days and now we reap the harvest. The Kootenay Co-op, our members who bought the produce and the farmers who grew it fostered a strong belief in the organic movement, which has turned into a $1 million/year produce department. That powerful triangle of member, Co-op and farmer means that many local organic growers now earn a living doing what they love. No small feat in these days of mass farming subsidies due to the drive for “rock bottom prices”. During our local season, 90% of our display is locally grown, certified organic. We pay a living wage to our farmers and decrease our mark-up to ensure that their product sells fast while still fresh – then we order more!

Supporting local, organic growers not only strengthens our local economy but also ensures the produce we sell is as fresh and nutritious as it can be. When produce is not available locally, we then buy from regional, sometimes Californian or other certified organic farms from further afield. You can be assured that the produce staff always works hard to bring you, our valued customer, the freshest organic produce at the best possible price.

Our produce display is bountiful and beautiful because:

• We sell fresh, local and organic
• We’ve known our farmers for years
• We take pride in offering quality & freshness

We welcome your ideas and suggestions, enquiries and special requests!

Contact Department Co-ordinator

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Departments:  Grocery & Bulk  |  The Deli  |  Produce  |  Personal Care