What is National Co+op Grocers (NCG)?
National Co+op Grocers, or NCG, is a unique business services cooperative that supports retail food co-ops all across the United States. Imagine a network of 167 food co-ops running 241 stores in 39 states, coming together with a shared purpose. These co-ops collectively generate over $2.8 billion in annual sales and serve more than 1.3 million consumer-owners. NCG offers the power and capacity of a big chain but lets each co-op keep its own autonomy. It’s all about uniting these food co-ops to optimize operations, boost marketing efforts, strengthen purchasing power, and ultimately deliver more value to shoppers and co-op owners everywhere.
Main Benefits of NCG
NCG’s impact is impressive, and here are some key figures that highlight its reach and influence:
- 167 food co-ops represented
- 241 stores operating nationwide
- Presence in 39 states
- Combined annual sales topping $2.8 billion
- Serving over 1.3 million consumer-owners
These numbers show just how powerful a cooperative approach can be in the grocery sector, especially when it comes to supporting local, organic, natural, and fair-trade products.
NCG’s Mission: Growing Together
At its core, NCG exists to maximize the success, inclusivity, and impact of its members. The mission goes beyond just business growth—it’s about expanding the cooperative grocery sector in both size and scope, while doing so in an environmentally regenerative way. This means supporting sustainable farming, locally-grown produce, and fair-trade practices that benefit communities and the planet alike. It’s a mission that’s as much about people and values as it is about food and grocery.
Equity, Belonging, Inclusivity, and Accessibility (EBIA) Vision
NCG is committed to being a learning organization, continuously evolving to build a culture that’s positive and inclusive. They value a diversity of ideas, perspectives, and identities—because that’s what drives innovation and community strength. The goal? To create an environment where everyone feels respected and dignified, where people are inspired by their work, and proud of what they contribute. It’s about making sure that every voice counts and every person belongs.
Advocacy and Community Impact
NCG doesn’t just stop at supporting co-ops internally; it also acts as a unified voice advocating for issues that matter to food co-op owners, shoppers, and their communities. Whether it’s pushing for fair-trade policies, promoting sustainable agriculture, or ensuring access to healthy, organic foods, NCG stands at the forefront. This advocacy helps shape a food system that’s fairer, healthier, and more sustainable for everyone involved.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger – Supporting access to healthy, organic, and locally-grown food
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Empowering cooperative businesses and fair-trade growers
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Promoting inclusivity and accessibility within the cooperative sector
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Encouraging sustainable purchasing and natural products
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Committing to environmentally regenerative practices
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Supporting sustainable farming and local growers
Contact and Connection
For those interested in learning more or connecting with NCG, the cooperative is headquartered at 2610 University Ave. West, Suite 150, Saint Paul, MN 55114. They can be reached by phone at (612) 343-2800. This connection point is more than just an address—it’s a hub for collaboration, growth, and shared commitment to a better food system. Whether you’re a shopper, grower, or part of a local co-op, NCG is there to support and amplify your efforts.
