50 Things to Love About the Co-op
A lot can change in 50 years. A lot can stay the same, too. And while the Co-op has seen its fair share of change since 1973, many things remain constant, and for good reason. Our commitment to the Skagit Valley community, our staff, and our local farmers and producers has never faltered. We’re proud to be the heart of Downtown Mount Vernon and honored to have members like you that support us and our mission to provide good food to the community.
From the sounds of it, the feeling is mutual: through Google reviews, store surveys, emails, and social media comments, you all have shared what you love about the Co-op. Just know that there are real humans that read every single one of your notes, and we value your thoughts and comments more than you might know!
In fact, you all have left so many wonderful comments over the years that we have enough (well, more than enough) to put together a cooperatively crafted love letter. So, in honor of our 50th anniversary, get ready to feel all warm and cozy with 50 things our customers, staff, and board members love about the Co-op, in no particular order.
High quality + diverse selection of groceries
My coworkers
Thoughtful and responsible products
How deeply (and maybe unknowingly) we all impact those around us
The environment is upbeat and friendly
The Mercantile – it’s different every time, even though I work here
Feels like home
Wonderful place for lunch
The chance to be a part of a community experience even for a short time
So many yummy vegan options
The comfy feeling
Kind and knowledgeable staff
Shopping joy!
Best produce in the Valley
We’re local, independent, and community-centered
Fun and “hip” atmosphere
Everybody knows your name
Availability of bulk food
The people
Great community involvement
Diverse people coming together for the common cause of having good foods
The coffee bar is a treat to look forward to
Gourmet, organic, local, quality, delicious
Everyone is always friendly and helpful from the cheese buyer to the checkout worker
Fresh selections of fruit in produce
Reasonable prices
Fresh + food + friends + smells
A very welcoming place to shop
The ambiance and smell are relaxing and inviting
An important community hub to keep alive
Great blend of familiar products and new items
Our employees
The experience at the Co-op is absolutely exquisite
Sharing anecdotes and information in wellness
Great food, good vibes
The 2nd-floor gift shop!
The coolest Co-op ever
The curried kasha knishes and ginger-lemon or savory scones are food groups within themselves
Best of everything local
Community gathering place
Almost everything you need under a single roof
Great deli, smoothie, coffee spot
SO many choices
The employees are seriously the most helpful I have experienced in any Co-op ever
Grabbing ice cream here is a MUST
Multi-grain bread is phenomenal
The black bottom cupcake
Foodie’s paradise
The fresh baked cookies and sandwiches are so good
The real deal