ABOUT US
Welcome to the Springfield Food Co-op!
The Springfield Food Co-op has been a community staple for almost 30 years. We are open to all, and work to provide healthy, natural affordable grocery, wellness, fresh produce, meats, and deli items to everyone in our community. We are member-owned by over 3,000 individuals, and we serve anyone who walks through the doors. We strive to support our local economy with excellent jobs, fair prices to local farmers and vendors, accessible food options, and community giving.
Our Mission
The Springfield Food Co-op operates as a member-owned store that provides healthy natural foods, emphasizing local and organic products in keeping with the International Cooperative Principles and values, and with our Purposes and Aims.
Our History
Buying clubs sprang up all around the Springfield area in the 1970s. These small groups of dedicated individuals preceded the Springfield Food Co-op with their consumer demand for healthful and socially responsible alternatives to big grocery. As more people joined these clubs, a storefront became a more convenient way to access the desired goods. A tiny cooperative named The Pantry was open in downtown Springfield for about 5 years but was ultimately unsuccessful.
Then in 1992 a board of directors was formed and the Springfield Food Co-op opened on the Chester Road. A wide selection of dry goods, produce, and health products were available in this charming and convenient community setting for 13 years. The Co-op was notified in 2005 that they would have to vacate their Chester Road location. There was not enough time to make arrangements to move immediately, so by August of 2005 the Co-op sold off its goods and the doors closed.
Eight months later, with the generous help of volunteers, the Co-op reopened at 335 River Street. The Co-op operated out of the River Street location for 15 years, evolving, growing, and expanding over that time. Many beloved memories were made in this little store!
Our MOVE TO DOWNTOWN
The Springfield Food Co-op has experienced great success since it was founded thirty years ago, reaching over $2 million in annual sales and significant membership growth. After years of planning and hard work, we began our move to downtown Springfield, and in June of 2021, opened the doors to our brand new store on Main Street!
Our new store was made possible by the dedication of our amazing co-op crew, and the commitment and investments of our members and greater community.
The store features expanded bulk and produce departments, a greater product selection, more efficient coolers and lighting, a deli hot bar, and room for indoor and outdoor cafe seating! We continue to prioritize supporting local farmers and producers as much as possible, as well as stocking organic and fair trade options. We are open 7 days a week and are open to all. We look forward to many years of serving this wonderful community in our new store!
