The Merc Co+op’s Board of Directors is made up of seven co-op owners elected by the ownership to serve three-year terms. Any co-op owner is eligible to run for a board position.
The Board acts on behalf of co-op owners, responsible for guiding the overall vision of the co-op and monitoring progress toward that vision. To support this work, the board establishes policies that govern both themselves and the General Manager. The board works closely with the General Manager, who provides regular reports on store operations, including finances, customer satisfaction, and more.
Get to know the owners that represent you!
Alison Gruber
Meet Alison
Why did you become a co-op owner?
My family and I became co-op members because the easy button The Merc provides with its efficient, high quality food supply resource that works with local vendors seeking sustainable methods (one-stop shop!).
Why did you choose to join the board?
I chose to join the board to ensure engaged people were sustaining the remarkable system that is The Merc, enabling our community to have access to high quality food sources.
What part of the co-op's mission do you connect with the most, and why?
Ethically connecting local food with the people who live in the same community is crucial for personal and global health.
What's one thing you hope the co-op achieves/works towards during your term as a director?
I am excited to support the Merc as it moves into new/ongoing directions as the Kansas City store is phased out.
What are you up to when you're not volunteering on the board?
I am often outside with my husband and son moving our bodies, cooking, teaching, or making music.
What is your favorite food or product the co-op carries?
I love the produce at the Merc: the quality is top-notch, of great variety, and always delicious. My family and I delight in frequenting the aisles/displays several times a week as we plan our meals.
Board Meetings
All co-op owners are invited to attend monthly board meetings, typically held the first Monday each month at 6:30 p.m. Early in the agenda, the board reserves ten minutes of space to hear from owners who wish to address the board.