More than Just Good Food

Our Mission

Making a difference one bite at a time.

History of Community

The Grain Train is a natural foods cooperative serving our community since 1971. With over 50 years of dedication to providing high-quality local and organic products, we owe our success to the loyal support of our customers and owners. Our flagship store has been located in downtown Petoskey since 1971. In December 2013 we expanded with a second location, the Grain Train Neighborhood Market in Boyne City, which opened its doors in June 2014. We invite everyone to visit our markets, where you’ll find a wide selection of everyday items, snacks, and specialty products that showcase the best of Northern Michigan’s organic and local offerings. Come explore what we have to offer!

Product Guidelines

To uphold our commitment to providing only the best products, the Grain Train has established comprehensive product guidelines designed to help customers navigate the vast array of products available today. We ensuring that every item we offer has undergone rigorous evaluation and meets our high standards.

Our product standards focus on quality and health. We exclusively stock items free from artificial colors or flavorings, growth hormones, and antibiotics or any other substances known to adversely affect one’s health and safety. We also refuse to purchase from companies that violate workers’ rights, practice animal testing, or harm the environment. Preference is given to those companies that minimize their ecological impact in their growing, production, and packaging practices.

At the Grain Train, we believe that quality, ethical practices, great taste, and affordability should go hand in hand. We strive to offer a diverse selection of products that cater to the needs and budgets of all our customers, ensuring that every meal and snack reflects our commitment to health and sustainability. We do not believe that good quality, good practices, great taste, and principles need to be set aside for an affordable meal. Instead, these qualities should be intrinsic with every meal and every snack.

What is a Co-op?

Food co-ops are a fantastic way to foster community and promote healthy eating. They are owned by folks in their communities who value healthy, delicious food that’s good for everyone. Co+ops believe that food helps us celebrate our differences and brings us together. Everyone is welcome to shop at food co-ops. And everyone is welcome to join a co-op and enjoy the benefits of being an owner. And when you become a co-op owner, it opens up opportunities to engage and make a difference in your local food system. To learn more about the co-op difference, visit grocery.coop.