A food co-op is a community-owned grocery store that exists to serve people—not shareholders. Unlike traditional grocery stores where profits go to corporate owners, Prairie Food Co-op is owned by the people who shop here.

Anyone can shop at Prairie Food Co-op, but Owners receive additional benefits, discounts, and a voice in how the store is run. Ownership means you’re supporting a locally rooted grocery store while helping shape its future.

How a Food Co-op Is Different from a Traditional Grocery Store

As a cooperative grocery store, Prairie Food Co-op is guided by values that prioritize quality, transparency, and community impact:

• People over profits – We reinvest in our store, staff, and community rather than maximizing corporate profits.

• Support for local farms and businesses – We prioritize fresh, locally produced, and sustainably sourced food whenever possible.

• Transparency you can trust – Strict product standards, clear labeling and sourcing so you know where your food comes from.

• Money stays local – Every purchase supports regional farmers, food producers, and local jobs.

• Owner participation – Each Owner has a voice in governance and major decisions.

What You’ll Find at Prairie Food Co-op

Prairie Food Co-op is a full-service local grocery store, offering both premium organic options and everyday staples for convenient neighborhood shopping.

You’ll find:

• Fresh Local Produce – Featuring seasonal fruits and vegetables from Illinois and the Midwest

• Meat & Fish – Responsibly sourced, high-quality proteins

• Regional Dairy – Supporting Midwest dairy farmers

• Grab-and-Go Deli Items – Fresh, convenient meals and snacks

• Beer & Wine – Curated selections with an emphasis on local and craft producers

• Household & Wellness Products – Sustainably made, thoughtfully sourced essentials

Our Mission & Community Impact

Prairie Food Co-op exists to make fresh, high-quality food accessible year-round while strengthening our local food system and economy.

• Environmental stewardship – Supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing food miles

• Fair wages & good jobs – Providing stable employment with fair pay and benefits

• Community-centered shopping – A grocery store shaped by the values of the people it serves

Become an Owner

Prairie Food Co-op is open—and growing. When you become an Owner, you’re investing in a grocery store that reflects your values while helping ensure a thriving, locally owned food source for years to come.

Shop here. Own here. Belong here.

Governance & Cooperative Principles

Prairie Food Co-op operates according to strong, transparent governance practices:

• Bylaws – Define our purpose, cooperative structure, and the rights and responsibilities of Owners and Board Directors

• Policy Register – Connects cooperative principles to decision-making at all levels: staff, management, Board, and Owners

Learn more about our governance model, as well as view our policy register and bylaws, here. 

The 7 Cooperative Principles

Like food co-ops around the world, Prairie Food Co-op follows seven internationally recognized cooperative principles that guide how we operate, govern, and serve our community.