Become an Owner
Why Become an Owner?
HISTORY OF COMMUNITY
For 50 years the Grain Train Natural Foods Cooperative has been a thriving downtown Petoskey market offering the best in local and organic foods and products. From the original buying club that started it all in 1971, to the small walk-up on Mitchell Street, the first storefront on Howard Street, planning and building the store at our current location, and the opening of the Grain Train Neighborhood Market in Boyne City in 2013, what an amazing journey it has been. We’ve grown and flourished thanks to you, our loyal customers and owners, who have supported us for five decades.
OWNERSHIP
Simply, our owners own the store. We carry fresh produce, packaged goods, supplements, beauty aides, wine, beer, and other products that fit the Grain Train’s mission, product guidelines, and the interests of our owners. We are your store and your voice counts. You make the decisions that guide the store. As an owner, each year you vote for candidates for the Board of Directors and for changes to the Grain Train’s By-Laws and other major co-op issues.
BECOME AN OWNER
Becoming an owner is easy. Benefits begin with your first payment and you only need to join once. Your first payment is $25 when you sign up and then $25 every six months until your reach your full $200 investment. Or pay the entire $200 at one time and receive a $10 gift card.
Your equity belongs to you and if you no longer wish to be an owner, your investment can be refunded. Equity is generally refundable, however, the Board retains the right to withhold refunds when necessary to protect the financial well being of the co-op. To obtain a refund of your equity, merely submit a letter stating that you would like a refund, for any reason.