Brattleboro Food Co-op to Celebrate 50 Years of Community and Sustainability in 2025

In February 2025, the Brattleboro Food Co-op will celebrate a significant milestone—50 years of providing wholesome, locally sourced food, fostering community, and promoting sustainability. Since its opening on February 20, 1975, the Co-op has evolved from a small collective to a thriving, member-owned grocery store that plays a key role in the local economy and food system.

From the very beginning, the Co-op has embraced the spirit of collaboration and cooperative values, relying on community and volunteer support for special events, community programs, and decision-making processes, and creating opportunities for members to actively engage in the success of the organization.

“We’re proud of the way our community has supported us over the years—whether through volunteerism, membership, or simply shopping here,” said Amy Crawford, Marketing and Community Relations Manager. “The Co-op is truly a product of its people. It’s about so much more than food; it’s about building a stronger, more sustainable community, and we’re excited to reflect on the journey as we reach this important milestone.”

Since its early days, the Co-op has remained committed to offering high-quality, organic, and locally grown products while supporting regional farmers, artisans, and small businesses. Its impact on the local food economy has been profound, providing a reliable marketplace for local producers and offering Brattleboro residents access to healthy, sustainably grown food.

As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, the Brattleboro Food Co-op will host a series of special events throughout 2025, including community gatherings, educational programs, and promotions that highlight the Co-op’s history and community impact. These events will offer an opportunity to reflect on how the Co-op has helped shape Brattleboro’s food culture while also looking forward to its next chapter.

Looking ahead, the Co-op remains committed to its founding principles of cooperation, sustainability, and equity. With ongoing support from its members and the broader community, the Co-op is poised to continue being a vital resource for fresh, locally sourced food and a gathering space where neighbors can come together to build a more just and sustainable food system.