About Us

A place for people who value healthy food, a healthy planet, and cooperation.
       — Our vision statement

The George Street Co-op is a natural foods store owned and run by its members, and not for profit.  We sell vegetarian foods that have the least amount of processing, additives and toxins, with the greatest nutritional value possible.  Anyone may shop at the Co-op and choose from our excellent selection of fresh organic produce, bodycare and earth-friendly products, bulk foods, vitamins & herbs, gifts, and more.

History

The George Street Co-op began in 1973 when ten people from the Vegetarian Club at Rutgers started a buying club out of a garage off George Street.  A year later, the Co-op moved to a building on George Street and opened a small retail store.  As the Co-op grew and expanded, it purchased its own building, and in May of 1988 the Co-op moved to its current location, 89 Morris Street.

Our Structure

A small paid staff and our members perform the daily work at the store.  We emphasize good service to all customers, members as well as non-members.  Members, however, enjoy greater benefits like substantial product discounts, pride of ownership and community involvement (click here to view more of the benefits of membership).  Products are priced to cover the cost of operating the store, and all profits are reinvested back into the Co-op.

The Co-op is owned by its members, who help choose store policy and vote for the Board of Directors.  The Board governs the Co-op, selects the staff management, and decides on overall strategy.  There are also a number of store committees, which each focus on different functions such as membership, orientations, and outreach.

Confused about our structure? Click here to learn more about Cooperatives.

Excerpt from Our Articles of Incorporation
(April 26, 1978)

2.  The purpose for which this corporation is formed is to provide non-flesh foods with a minimum of processing and contaminants; and other health and household products to the members of the George Street Co-Op, Inc. at the most reasonable prices available without allowing for a profit to the corporation.  The goals of the corporation are to promote general health through provision of appropriate foods and education, within the context of a cooperative spirit among the members, and bring an awareness to the membership that the work invested by individual members is the cohesive force making this organization a Co-Op.  The George Street Co-Op allows members to participate in a cooperative buying association and to come into closer contact with the source of their food.  The George Street Co-Op does not contemplate the distribution of gains, profits or dividends to the members thereof and is organized solely for non-profit purposes.

Are we missing something? In the spirit of co-operation, we would love to hear your suggestions about what you think should be on our site. Click here to make your comments.