The Power of Shopping Local with Co-op

Apr 29, 2024


Small Business Week is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of supporting local businesses. Shopping local is not merely a transaction; when you shop at local businesses, you’re directly contributing to the economic health of your community. These businesses are often owned and operated by your neighbors, friends, and family members, and your dollars circulate within the community to support jobs and essential services.
 
At the heart of this celebration lies cooperation, community, and commitment. These values drive our local Co-ops as they offer unwavering support for those in the agricultural landscape. Co-op, recognized as one of the strongest federated farm supply cooperative systems in the nation, encompasses Tennessee Farmers Cooperative (TFC) along with 49 member Co-ops and 27 associate members in neighboring states. What truly sets Co-op apart, though, is our deep-rooted connection to the communities we serve.
 
At our core, Co-op thrives on the contributions of our member-owners — the 70,000 farmers who are the backbone of local Co-ops across counties. However, Co-op extends its welcoming arms far beyond our membership, offering quality products and services to everyone. With a store location in 84 Tennessee counties, Co-op touches the lives of over half a million customers.
 
Walk into any Co-op, and you’ll instantly feel the warmth and familiarity of your hometown. We’re not just a retail outlet; we’re a cornerstone of the community, locally owned and operated with a dedicated staff committed to serving every customer with excellence. We have a keen sense of responsibility and stewardship, which fosters a closely-knit network of farmers working in harmony for the collective good.
 
So, as we celebrate Small Business Week, we want to take a moment to express our gratitude to the loyal customers who continue to support Co-op and the local businesses that enrich our communities. Your choice to shop local isn’t just about the money; it’s about investing in the growth of agriculture. Together, let’s continue to champion the spirit of cooperation, community, and commitment that defines Co-op and the small businesses that make our world a better place.
 
If you would like to support our small business, find your nearest Co-op location here. For more content like this, check out the latest issue of The Cooperator.

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