Market 166 isn’t just a grocery store. We’re a cooperative, which means we’re owned and controlled by the people we serve: our community. But what does that really mean in practice?
Every cooperative around the world follows the same seven core principles, established by the International Cooperative Alliance. These aren’t just nice ideas. They’re the foundation of how we operate, make decisions, and serve you.
1. Voluntary and Open Membership
Anyone can become a Member-Owner of Market 166. There are no barriers based on gender, race, religion, or political affiliation. If you live in the Tri-Cities or surrounding areas and want to invest in your community’s food future, you’re welcome here.
2. Democratic Member Control
One Member, one vote. No matter your. level of investment, your voice counts equally. Our Board of Directors are elected by Member-Owners, and major decisions come to the membership for a vote. This is your store!
3. Member Economic Participation
Member-Owners contribute equitably to the capital of the cooperative. When Market 166 has a profitable year, those surplus funds can be returned to Members as patronage dividends, reinvested in the co-op, or used to support community projects.
4. Autonomy and Independence
Market 166 is controlled by our Member-Owners, not outside investors or corporate headquarters. We make decisions locally, for the benefit of our community. No out-of-state executives are telling us what to stock or how to operate.
5. Education, Training, and Information
We believe in empowering our Members with knowledge. That’s why we share information about the co-op model, provide training for volunteers and future staff, and keep you informed about our progress through newsletters, meetings, and posts like this one.
6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives
We don’t compete with other co-ops. We collaborate. Market 166 is part of a national network of food cooperatives, and we learn from grocery co-ops across the country. We source products from cooperative businesses like Cafe Campesino, a worker-owned coffee roaster in Americus, Georgia.
7. Concern for Community
This is the heart of everything we do. Market 166 exists to serve our community. We’re working to improve food access, support local farmers, and create a gathering space where neighbors can connect.
