Boise Co-op Extends Lease, Plans Expansion

BOISE, ID:  The Boise Co-op has signed a long-term lease and will remain planted in the North End community through 2036.  The Co-op has resided at the current Fort Street location since 1995. 

“This is where it all began,” said Ben Kuzma, the Co-op’s general manager.  “The Co-op has deep ties to this community, and after 40 years in business, we continue to be in it for the long haul.”

The Board of Directors also is exploring options to expand the Co-op’s footprint in the Treasure Valley by opening a second store.  The Board has held expansion discussions over the last few years — originally prompted by the Co-op’s members/owners. “We are excited about the opportunity to expand our reach in the Treasure Valley,” said TJ Stevens, the Boise Co-op’s Board chair.  “We are devoted to creating a local marketplace which connects the community to high-quality, natural and organic foods and specialty products.”

Currently, there is no specific site selected for the second store.  The Board has established a real-estate committee to lead the planning process.  Discussions will continue over the next few months to determine a location and opening date.  Members and shoppers can lend their voice by taking a short survey (click here to access the survey).

The Boise Co-op is a member-owned food cooperative, founded in 1973.  Located in Boise’s historic north end, the Co-op currently has 25,000 active members within the Treasure Valley.  The vision of the Boise Co-op is to continually set the standard for building and maintaining a sustainable community.