Each month, The Merc Co+op Board of Directors shares the decisions and topics discussed at their most recent meeting, or upcoming opportunities for engagement — promoting transparency and accountability with co-op owners.
Owner Appreciation Days & Engaging with the Board
Mark Sprague
From Mark Sprague, Board Member & Owner Engagement Committee Chair
Over the years of being an owner of our co-op, The Merc, what I like about our store and what it offers has evolved.
In the beginning, it was the only place to purchase food that was organic and staples that vegetarians depend on, like tofu. The bulk section became an affordable way to stock the pantry of essential items. Our excellent produce department became an important catalyst for local growers, before there was a farmers market. Shoppers know more about where their food comes from as 26% of our products come from local suppliers.
One thing I look forward to twice a year is Owner Appreciation Month, in April and October. My wife and I always take advantage of the discount to stock up on foods to put up for the rest of the year.
Owner Appreciation Days used to be Owner Appreciation Weekend, until about 15 years ago. I remember this last day of this format as the checkout line was backed up almost to the back stairs and the staff passed out chocolate to keep people happy.
Today, I looked forward to Owner Appreciation Days for a different reason. It is when The Merc Co+op Board Members “table” in the store to meet owners and to listen to feedback about how they feel about their co-op. We will be in the Lawrence store on April 12, and the KC store April 26.
Some of us will be helping with the Friends of the Kaw River Clean Up effort on April 19, 9–1.
In future months, we will be having “Coffee with the Board” events in both stores for more opportunities for interactions with owners. Please join us for coffee and baked treats and tell us how you feel about your cooperative. Look forward to seeing you!
About the Board
The Merc Co+op's Board of Directors is comprised of nine co-op owners who are elected by the general ownership and serve a three-year term. Any co-op owner can run for a board position.
The board creates a set of policies to govern themselves and the General Manager, who provides the group with regular reports on store operations. The board delegates all operational matters to the General Manager.
Board Meetings
All co-op owners are invited to attend monthly board meetings. Early in the agenda, the board reserves ten minutes of space to hear from owners who wish to address the board.