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Overview
The Astoria Co-op is located in downtown Astoria, Oregon. It was originally incorporated in 1975 as a non-profit, under the name "The Community Store". In 2004, a transition from a non-profit to a cooperative business structure took place. You can read about the details in the co-op structure section.

The mission of the Co-op is to serve the Lower Columbia River community by providing fairly priced, wholesome foods and other goods in an ecologically sustainable, socially responsible, and economically appropriate manner.


Join The Astoria Co-op
The Astoria Co-op, as a cooperative business, is owned by its members. You join the co-op by buying a share. Benefits of ownership include:

  • A vote in all Co-op elections to help direct the Co-op's future.
  • Receipt of the Co-op's quarterly newsletter containing a list of sale items, great recipes, and general news to help keep you educated and informed about all things regarding the Co-op and your health.
  • Discounts on all purchases including special orders.
  • The opportunity to volunteer at the Co-op as a Working-Owner.
  • Future patronage refunds.
  • Increased equity for the Co-op, which will further enable the store to deliver the goods and services you want.
  • The ability to redeem shares in accordance with section 7.4 of the Co-op's bylaws.

A share in the co-op costs $200, and may be paid all at once, or in installments of $25 or more. Owner applications are available at the store. Please join!


Volunteers Make the Co-op Go 'Round!
Exciting changes are in progress at the Co-op: new products, new building prospects, new policies, and new volunteers! As the store evolves, the need for "community" becomes more apparent with each stage. Niches exist for members of diverse skills and talents. (EVERYONE has skills and talents; it's just a matter of finding where yours fit. We are happy to guide you!) We encourage you to contact a manager or board member to find out what opportunities might best fit your talents. You can do this at a monthly board meeting, or contact individuals:

  • Membership and Outreach Committee Contact: Tracy Erfling, 325-9194, terfling@iinet.com
  • In-store Positions: Mick Mitchell, 325-0027
While meeting people and making contributions to the co-op are benefits in themselves, remember that volunteers donating at least two hours weekly receive the 10% working member discount. So do something good for the community and for yourself: volunteer!