Welcome to the Table!
At a time of increasing political division, tribalism and wealth inequality, this simple statement declares our values of inclusivity, tolerance and the basic right to healthy, delicious food. We are throwing our doors wide open and welcoming everyone to the table.
For several years now, natural and organic food can be purchased through an increasing number of retail channels. This is why co-ops - like us - have a responsibility to reintroduce ourselves as an approachable grocer for a broader food community, beginners and veterans alike.
We have to recognize that some of our community reports walking in and not feeling welcome. Images, employees and languages all matter, and so does food. It’s important that we let our shoppers know that we offer great food. But when great food slips into the territory of “premium” or “only the best,” a lot of people believe it’s not for them.
The pandemic has been eye opening, to say the least. When the stay-at-home order was put into place and our shoppers came to stock up, what flew off the shelves - and what did not - told us a lot about the needs and priorities of our community.
In order to keep up with demand and serve, we had to remain agile. Our co-op made allowances and brought in items that you may not have found on our shelves prior to the pandemic, including more conventional products. And, so that we could remain transparent to our owners, we stated the following on our website and in emails.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR CO-OP DURING COVID-19: Our number one priority is feeding our community.
Supply is limited from all national and regional distributors, which is why you'll see new and different items coming through the store. Some of these foods may not live up to the strict standards that the co-op has historically adhered to. Now is not the time to reject or exclude the foods, products or brands that are available to us. Now is the time to serve and feed our community.
Thank you, in advance, for your support and understanding.
This is not the only time in our history that we have adjusted what we carry to keep our shelves stocked and to serve the changing needs of our community. It serves our co-op well to be ready rather than reactionary. To that end, and with the support of our board of directors, we have updated the co-op's priorities in regards to the products we carry.
The pandemic and the resulting supply issues are not the reason. They are a reason. The opening of our second store where affordability and inclusivity is key is not the reason. It is another reason. The fact that a portion of our Lawrence community believes that they cannot shop here is not the reason. It is yet another reason.
Contrary to what some may think, we are not watering down our values, nor throwing them out the window. We are simply removing judgment of others for their own values and choices. After all, that is what a cooperative is. We believe in the power of democracy. Rather than impose boycotts or ban ingredients, we encourage all shoppers to voice their opinions and vote with their purchases.
We look forward to inviting more of our regional community to participate in our cooperative business, and to welcome everyone to the table.
Questions? Please contact our Rita York Hennecke, General Manager, at gm@themerc.coop.
