History
Well over four decades ago, in living rooms and low rent store fronts and church basements, small groups gathered, united by a common belief: That transformative action was necessary to create a just food system. With rebellion born of losing the means of control, these people pooled skills, money and spirit to form hundreds of cooperative buying clubs, which evolved into food co-op stores. In a cooperatively-owned food system, common wealth would win over corporate consolidation. They filled shops with oats, beans, peanut butter, bulk tofu. They connected with farmers nearby, and created self-run distribution systems to more people at more co-ops. Action was based in principles of democracy, self-empowerment and mutual respect. It would have a powerful impact on the world. Thanks to the cooperators of the 1970's - some of whom still work for People's Food Co-op, and many of whom are still members in Rochester and La Crosse - we've now got all kinds of access to great food.
Specialties
People's Food Co-op is the neighborhood grocery that goes the extra mile. Are you looking for a store where they'll still carry your groceries out to your car? Remember the days of a deli and bakery where everything was made from scratch rather than coming from a 5 gallon pail? Or how about a cashier who will not only look you in the eye, but will also remember your name? Perhaps a butcher in-house that will cut to order beef that was raised locally by ranchers who raise cattle to his specifications? Well, search no more. PFC brings back the best of what once was and makes it new again. People's Food Co-op is community owned. That means that we have a special understanding of how we must nourish and respect not only our shoppers, but our community and our environment as well. We're not food fundamentalists. We seek to help people make choices that are good for their health, their community, and their wallets...and we know that looks different for everyone.