Vancouver Food Network

Emerging from a 1997 neighborhood buyer's club, Alberta Cooperative Grocery opened in 2001 and was profitable within three years, grossing almost two million dollars from just under 3,000 square feet in 2007. Governance is by an elected board which has recently adopted the Carver "policy governance" model, with operations by a team of co-managers. ACG holds monthly orientations and board meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month. Ownership is $180.

In addition to fresh produce and a strong bulk section, the Alberta Co-op also has a good variety of micro-brew beer and basic organic meats.

A History of Financial Success

Since opening in 2002 with annual sales of $980K, ACG has shown consistent growth of 9-23% each year, increasing 23% from $1.98 to $2.4 million for 2008. With twenty-two regular staff, five subs and approximately fifty working members, Alberta saw membership grow 36% from 454 at the beginning of 2008 to 618 by the end. 2008 was also the year that ACG applied for and was accepted into the National Cooperative Grocers Association, a major trade organization for established stores, which brings significant benefits and discounts for its members. Major goals for 2009 include more sophisticated use of financial data, improved store layout to maximize on limited space, board leadership training and better training and support for employees.

Contact Information for Alberta Co-Op

Alberta Cooperative Grocery

1500 NE Albera St
Portland OR 97211

(503) 287-4333
http://AlbertaGrocery.coop

For Further Information

• http://AlbertaGrocery.coop
• Alberta Co-op on FaceBook
• Alberta Cooperative's listing with Cooperative Grocer
• "The Co-Op Culture Grows on Portland" by Kathleen Bauer. The Oregonian. September 30, 2008.
• "Walk in Like You Own the Place: Rediscovering Portland's Cooperative Grocery Stores" by Lola Milholland. Edible Portland, Winter 2008.

* Amended to include data from 2008 annual report.