Instead of focuses on profit like most grocery stores, The People's Supermarket is a cooperative in London, UK that not only offers very low prices, but also re-invests its earnings back into the community through memberships.
"Each member pays a £25 annual fee (which includes £1 for a cooperative share) and they commit to giving four hours, every four weeks, to the running of the organisation," the site explains. "In return they get 10% off all their purchases, a share of the ownership of the store and engagement in a democratic process."
Unlike other membership retailers or grocery stores, however, The People's Supermarket is open to the public as well, allowing any shopper to take advantage of the store's cheap prices on products that are, for the most part, sustainable and local.
"Our vision is to create a commercially sustainable, social enterprise that achieves its growth and profitability targets whilst operating within values based on community development and cohesion," the website says. "Our intent is to offer an alternative food buying network, by connecting an urban community with the local farming community."
The People's Supermarket was founded by a visionary group in spring 2010, including chef Arthur Potts-Dawson and retailer Kate Wickes-Bull.
Contact Information
The People's Supermarket website
The People's Supermarket onTwitter
The People's Supermarket on Facebook
Not on front page