Co-ops Build Stronger Local Economies

In recent issues of the Natural Enquirer, we’ve been shining a light on the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives theme: Co-ops Build a Better World. In this issue, we’re drilling down to highlight how co-ops build a better world by strengthening local economies—timely given the climate of global trade.

Co-ops are deeply rooted in their local economies as peoplecentered drivers of circular innovation, job creation, and sustainable development. Your Co-op has been a driver of its own in Skagit Valley for over 50 years. We currently employ over 150 hard-working humans; we work hand-in-hand with local businesses to help support ours; and we manage our business in a way that has resulted and will continue to result in success across our triple bottom line objectives: financial, economic, environmental.

Supporting local farms, producers, and makers is a huge element of our business. In 2024, your Co-op worked with over 540 local producers, recorded $12M in sales of local product, and paid out $360,000 to local service providers.

And like all cooperatives, we have the opportunity to play a vital role in our community through the local multiplier effect. The local multiplier effect is our favorite kind of math! This ripple effect starts by spending money at a not-forprofit business such as the Co-op. The Co-op’s income goes towards local farmers and producers, staff who live nearby, and neighboring community organizations. This recirculation of money strengthens our ties with the community, builds resilience for our local economy, and improves the lives of our friends and neighbors.

The best part is, shopping at the Co-op makes you part of the equation.

Inside, you’ll find the General Manager’s take on tariffs, an update from Viva Farms post-federal funding suspension, and many stories about local farmers whose work is cultivating more than just good food. We also partnered with Skagit County’s Farmland Legacy Program to include their Annual Report, showcasing its work to preserve our precious farmland.