OUR ROOTS

The Boise Co-op was started in 1973 by an enterprising group of health-conscious individuals searching for nutritious, great-tasting food at reasonable prices. Little did they know that their seed of inspiration would grow into a community of more than 32,000 members who care just as passionately about healthy food! And even close to five decades in the business, we’re still as fresh and homegrown as it gets—a trusted, go-to source for healthy, delicious foods and natural body care products that intentionally has a big impact on the community. We now operate four stores to serve the needs of members and guests around the Treasure Valley. Check out all our locations here.

WHAT’S A CO-OP?

We all have childhood memories of parents, teachers and others encouraging us to work together. A co-op is what “working together” looks like all grown up. From the outside, many co-ops look like any other business, since a co-op provides products and services like conventional businesses do. But it’s what goes on behind the scenes that makes it different.

A cooperative exists to serve its members, but what makes co-ops unique is that the members are also the owners. So, in addition to getting the products and services you need, you own a share in the business.

Rather than rewarding outside investors with its profits, a co-op returns surplus revenue to its members in proportion to how much they use the co-op. This democratic approach to business results in a powerful economic force that benefits the co-op, its members and the communities it serves. And our volunteer Board of Directors is made up of members. Interested in learning more about the Board, or how to get involved? Check out our Board page!