About Community mercantile co-op
Community Mercantile Co-op: A Sustainable and Ethical Grocery Store
Community Mercantile Co-op, also known as The Merc, is a grocery store located in Lawrence, Kansas. Established in 1974, the co-op has been providing the community with high-quality natural and organic foods for over four decades. The Merc is more than just a grocery store; it's a community-owned business that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices.
The co-op's mission is to provide access to healthy food options while supporting local farmers and producers. They believe that everyone should have access to fresh, nutritious food regardless of their income level. That's why they offer discounts to low-income families through their "Mercy Shares" program.
The Merc sources its products from local farmers and producers whenever possible. By doing so, they reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing transportation emissions while supporting the local economy. They also prioritize fair trade products that ensure workers are paid fairly for their labor.
In addition to groceries, The Merc offers a variety of other services such as catering for events and classes on topics such as cooking and gardening. They also have an online store where customers can order groceries for pickup or delivery.
One unique aspect of The Merc is its commitment to zero waste practices. They strive to minimize waste by offering bulk items such as grains, nuts, and spices that customers can purchase using reusable containers instead of single-use packaging. They also compost all food waste generated by the store.
The co-op has received numerous awards for its sustainable practices including being named one of the top ten greenest grocery stores in America by Greenpeace USA in 2018.
Overall, Community Mercantile Co-op is more than just a grocery store; it's a community-driven business committed to sustainability and ethical practices while providing access to healthy food options for all members of the community.