Lexington Co-operative Market — Mission Statement

We are a membership-based organization, open to the entire community. We commit ourselves to serving both members and non-members by:

• Providing a natural foods grocery store in a friendly environment
• Providing education about nutrition, consumer issues, and cooperative principles
• Nurturing the local economy and the environment

Co-op History

The Lexington Co-op is part of the modern co-operative movement which began in Rochdale, England in 1844. Today approximately 765 million individuals are members of co-ops. In the US alone, the are over 47 thousand co-ops with over 100 million members. Members of these co-ops pool resources to achieve a variety of shared goals. Working together they have organized childcare co-ops, credit unions, farmers co-operatives, worker owned businesses, and more.

Our Own History

The Lexington Co-op was formed in 1971 by members who wanted access to whole foods at reasonable prices. Since then, it has evolved from an entirely member run organization to a fully functioning store with paid staff. Members of the Lexington Co-op can take pride in a $20 Billion Natural Foods Industry that they pioneered with their dedication, hard work, and cooperation!

Ten Reasons to Shop at the Lexington Co-op

1. Our mission to serve the community by providing a natural foods grocery store in a friendly environment.
2. We specialize in high quality homegrown and organic produce
3. Fresh baked bread made here in Lexi's Kitchen and delivered from other local bakeries, Bagel Jay's and Five Points Bakery.
4. Organic and rBGH free milks, cheeses and yogurts.
5. Bulk products to help you live more simply. We have the widest variety of grains, nuts, flours, granolas, herbs, teas and more. Buy as much as you need!
6. At least 52¢ of every dollar you spend returns to the Buffalo Niagara economy.
7. Prepared foods are made fresh daily by our talented chefs in Lexi’s Kitchen. From scrumptious sandwiches to full meals in our grab n go case to our salad, soup and hot bars, we have a fantastic variety to choose from daily.
8. Hand made, chemical and cruelty-free soaps and beauty aids.
9. Support a business that is owned by over 5200 people from your community.

Interview with Tim Bartlett, General Manager

Sara Sargent, a student of The Nichols School in Buffalo, interviews Tim about the Coop.

Board of Directors

Amy Holt, president
Jennifer Nalbone, secretary
Derek Bateman
Roy Cunningham
Hope Hoetzer-Cook
Alexandra Jewett McPherson
Marty Knauss
Chris Putrino
Christine Sabuda

By Laws

Download (96Kb PDF) the Bylaws of the Lexington Real Foods Community Cooperative, Inc.
Revised and approved by the Member-Owners 10/26/2003.