RICHLAND, Wash. – The Tri City Food Co-op has opened its new community space, featuring a St. Patrick’s Day themed monthly market and a new coffee shop.
The co-op officially opened its doors on Friday. The new coffee shop is providing customers with a spot to gather and enjoy the community.
“We’ve grown month by month. Each week we’re adding more and more and expanding, and now we’re finally able to say we’re open,” said a representative from the co-op.
The Tri City Food Co-op began its first phase on October 30, 2024, offering monthly markets. Jessica McPeak, the operations manager, discussed the growth that led to the current success.
“We started in October with just our produce and shelf stable department. And we’ve grown through five different phases. And now we offer a full selection and range of groceries, including meat, dairy, fish, eggs, and they’re all locally raised and available here at the co-op,” McPeak stated.
The co-op is supported by a diverse group of locals dedicated to promoting local products. McPeak highlighted the importance of the community in the co-op’s achievements.
“Our co-op is a community run grocery store. We’re all member driven. You do not have to be a member to shop. Everyone is welcome. But we are a group of farmers, ranchers, foodies and people who really wanted to see a local food co-op. It all started with us working in farmers markets, and we have a really rich farmer’s market community here. But we don’t have a place up until now where people can sell year round,” McPeak explained.
She also mentioned ways the community can support the co-op’s mission.
“The best way to spread this is actually community action. So telling your friends, telling your family if you really like something in your community, showing up and supporting, we really value all of our members, but we also value all of our shoppers who just stop by and check it out,” McPeak added.
For more information on how to become a member, visit the Tri City Food Co-op’s website.
