A co-op organiser packing food.

Cooperation Town is a movement of community food co-ops, self organising on streets and estates across the country

There are over 50 autonomous co-ops in our network

Cooperation Town co-ops are small neighbourhood buying groups, providing their members with free and affordable groceries, sourced in bulk and distributed at a very low price. 

Cooperation Town food co-ops are owned by their members and run according to local needs. Members decide collectively on how to organise and are responsible for the day to day running of the co-op.

While each Cooperation Town co-op is independent, the network is designed to share resources and support across the movement.

Our vision is for a food co-op on every street, in every town!

What’s the difference between a food co-op and a food bank?

Food co-ops are part of the Cooperative Movement, which means that they follow the seven co-operative principles.
Unlike a food bank, where recipients are means tested and have no say in how the service is run, food co-ops are organised by their members, who decide together what to buy and how to run the co-op.
They are not-for-profit groups, set up to meet members’ needs and are controlled by the people who join them. They are based on solidarity, not charity.
While members contribute towards the cost of their shopping, food co-ops offer a great value for money.
They are the most affordable and sociable way to access food.

How do I find my local community food co-op?

Cooperation Town members organise across London, Sheffield, Plymouth and other locations across England.
Search the maps in the links above to find your local co-op.
No co-op in your area? Get in touch to find out how to start one on your street or estate.

Who we are

The Cooperation Town network is coordinated by a not-for-profit workers cooperative (limited company).

Our London co-op and movement organisers are Katie Higgins, Shiri Shalmy, Fabian Fausten, Fateha McDaniel, Saul Jones and Kevin Biderman.
Our Plymouth organiser is Kelly Fritzsche and our Sheffield organiser is Mikee Whitson
The Gospel Oak Living Room organisers are Caroline Nalwoga, Marian Malaki and Cynthia Mulvihill

Cooperation Town in the news