What if Downtown Alpena had a local, community-owned grocery store? That question has inspired a growing group of community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and residents who are working together to explore the creation of a food co-op in Downtown Alpena.

Over the last six months, the Alpena Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and United Way of Northeast Michigan have partnered with a group of community members to evaluate the feasibility of creating a community-owned grocery store (a food co-op) in Downtown Alpena. The co-op would expand daily access to fresh, nutritious foods, along with everyday grocery, pantry, and bulk foods. The store could also feature products currently unavailable in Northeast Michigan, including natural and organic foods, bulk purchasing options, and freshly prepared foods for residents, workers, and visitors to enjoy on-site or take to go.

More than a grocery store, the organizers also see the potential for the food co-op to be an asset for the region that grows the food economy and becomes a welcoming gathering place in the heart of Downtown Alpena.

“Over the last several decades, Alpena has lost nearly all of its locally-owned grocery stores. Today, only one grocery store exists in the city limits,” said DDA Executive Director Anne Gentry. “Grocery stores are one of the most-visited places in our daily and weekly routines. Food co-ops re-imagine what a grocery store can be: a place that people are proud to shop at and reflects the needs of the community it serves. A co-op has the flexibility to carry locally grown and produced food plus everyday essentials, all while giving community members a direct stake in its success.”

A food co-op is a grocery store that is owned and operated by its community members rather than corporate investors. Unlike corporate grocery chains, food co-ops are totally independent and owned by the people who shop there. While you don’t need to be a member to shop at most co-ops, members get benefits like monthly coupons, discount days, dividends in profitable years, opportunities to buy products in bulk for a discount, and the opportunity to vote for a Board of Directors and other co-op policies.

Food co-ops have successfully operated in communities across Michigan for decades, including Oryana Community Co-op in Traverse City, Grain Train Natural Foods Market in Petoskey, and Marquette Food Co-op in Marquette. None currently exist in the Northeast Michigan region.

The date, the local group exploring an Alpena Food Co-Op has conducted a market feasibility study, drafted a pro-forma, identified possible product mix, and assessed potential sites within Downtown Alpena. 

And now, the group is looking to connect with other Northeast Michigan residents who are interested in learning more and getting involved.

At two upcoming meetings, community members are invited to learn more about what a food co-op is, why it matters for Alpena, progress made so far, and how to get involved.

• Wednesday, June 24 | PIF Cider (205 W Chisholm St)
• 5:30 PM Social & Cider Time
• 6:00 PM Presentation

• Monday, July 13 | Marithyme Cafe (109 N 2nd Ave)
• 5:00 PM Social & Snack Time
• 5:30 PM Presentation

“Whether you are passionate about food, curious about what a co-op is, or tired of driving across town for groceries, everyone is welcome to join us at an upcoming meeting,” said Gentry. “This is truly a community effort, and we need the community to bring it into reality.”

Those seeking more information can reach out to the Alpena DDA at 989-356-6422 or emailing alpenafoodcoop@gmail.com