Littleton Consumer Cooperative Society, Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How does a co-op work?
    A co-op is a member-owned non-profit organization. Members govern the store by electing the Board of Directors. The Board sets policies and hires managers who operate the store. For more information on co-ops, please visit www.cooperativegrocer.coop or www.ncga.coop.
  2. Will I have to work in the co-op?
    While some co-ops operate using member's labor, the Littleton Consumer Co-op intends to use professional staff for all positions except the Board of Directors.
  3. May only members shop at the store?
    All are welcome to shop at the store, but members receive additional benefits.
  4. What are the benefits of membership?
    Members will receive a patronage dividend out of operating surplus (if any) based on their co-op purchases over the prior year. In addition, members will elect the Board of Directors and vote on corporate policy.
  5. Does the Co-op allow family memberships?
    Shares may be held in multiple names. Each shareholder-whether one or more persons-has at most one vote.
  6. I'm not ready to invest $100 right now. Can I still participate?
    Membership may be accumulated one share at a time, with each share initially offered for $25. When you accumulate four shares, you will gain the benefits of membership.
  7. What happens to my investment if the store doesn't get built or the co-op fails?
    Assets will be liquidated and expenses paid. Any remaining funds will be distributed evenly based on the number of shares held.
  8. When will the store open?
    We have a target opening date of the end of this year. Already we have a site and draft design and are presently putting funding together. Please consider both joining (click Membership tab) and/or and making a Member Loan (click Member Loan tab).
  9. Can I provide more money than just my membership, to help the Co-op succeed?
    Each member can invest at most $2000. In addition, the co-op may borrow from any willing lender. Please see the Member Loan page for details.
  10. Is there any relationship between Littleton Consumer Co-op and Hanover Co-op?
    The Hanover Co-op has provided advice and support to us. Hanover may provide professional consultation or management in the future, but there is currently no contractual affiliation.
  11. How do I sign up?
    Sign up online or download the PDF Application Form: fill it in, and send it along with your payment and we'll return a receipt. Include e-mail address for e-mail updates.

    Mark Secord, Treasurer
    Littleton Consumer Cooperative Society, Inc.
    P.O. Box 377
    Littleton, NH 03561

  12. Where can I get additional information and keep abreast of new developments?
    Watch this website. Sign up for news by writing Info@LittletonCoop.org.
Littleton Consumer Cooperative Society, Inc. ®2007
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