Transforming Capital and Community: Food Co-operative Worker-Owner Models

Presenter

Anna Grace Brittan

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Deborah Keisch, Department of Civic Engagement & Service-Learning, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 5, 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C14, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 2 (C11-C20) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

The mission of Common Share Food Co-op is to provide a full-service grocery store and community third space owned by workers and consumers that fosters community connections, food justice, and local resilience. The co-op values food justice and interdependence through a solidarity economy. They aim to make diverse, healthy food accessible to all; collectivize workers, local producers, and consumers to create a thriving, resilient food system; and address social and economic inequality by removing barriers and fostering mutual respect. 

The co-op functions under the system of sociocracy, which is a sustainable form of governance founded on the values of equity and shared power. They operate through circles of people with specific initiatives where all decisions are made inclusively and collaboratively. Members of these circles and the board of directors are made up of dedicated local community members. The co-op’s constituents are made up of the shareholders who invested to become member-owners and the community members who need or want access to fairly-priced, healthy, local food options or a space to connect with the community.

The goal of this project was to research existing worker-owner models at other food co-ops around the country through surveys and interviews, compile and analyze those results, and create an easy-to-read material for the board, presenting the options, statistics, and pros and cons for the worker-owner model at Common Share Food Co-op. In this presentation, I will share these findings as well as the importance of anti-capitalist structures.

Keywords

sustainability, solidarity economy, anti-capitalism, food security , community resilience

Research Area

Business & Economics

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