What is a Co-op?
A co-operative is a business owned and operated by the people who use it — individuals coming together to meet their shared needs for goods and services. While the co-operative model can be applied to any kind of enterprise, in our case, it’s a shop.
What sets co-ops apart is democratic ownership. Our members have a real say in how the business is run, helping to shape decisions that balance financial sustainability with ethical values and the well-being of the wider community.
By actively participating, members help ensure the Co-op provides high-quality products and services at the fairest possible prices — all within a shared ethical framework.
Internationally, co-operatives are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, and solidarity. In the tradition of their founders, co-operative members believe in the ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others.
Our Values
The Blue Mountains Food Co-op is a member-owned not for profit organisation. We value community, respect the environment and promote equality and social responsibility. We seek to provide an accessible and welcoming shopping environment and share information to help members and the broader community make informed choices about what they eat and how they live.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide high quality food and eco-friendly products, and support and inspire members and the local community to make healthy and sustainable living choices.
Our Aims
At the Blue Mountains Food Co-op, we’re proud to do business differently — putting people, the planet, and community at the heart of everything we do. Here’s how:
- We sell and promote high-quality organic and sustainably sourced food and eco-friendly products that don’t cost the earth.
- We offer bulk goods wherever possible, helping to reduce packaging waste — and we prioritise Australian-made products when they match on quality and price.
- We encourage reuse by supporting the return and reuse of jars, bottles, and bags — paper, plastic, or otherwise.
- We support local food systems by encouraging the production and distribution of locally grown, organic fruit and vegetables.
- We share knowledge through educational initiatives on food, wellbeing, environmental sustainability, and edible gardening.
- We give back, donating 10% of our annual net surplus to food-related and social justice projects.
- We’re owned by our community, managed by our members, and shaped by active participation in the running of the shop.
- We value fairness, both in how we treat our team and how we price our products.
- We foster a positive workplace, encouraging staff satisfaction, collaboration, and personal growth.
- We keep prices as low as we can, while ensuring fair wages and creating space for future improvements and growth.
The Co-op Rules:
As a co-operative we are bound to abide by government regulations and guidelines. Here is a pdf that documents the rules and guidelines under which we operate: Co-operative rules
The Board
The Co-op Board consists of up to seven voluntary directors who are active members of the Co-op. Election of directors occurs at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The Board meets monthly and welcomes input from members. If you have feedback, questions, or concerns, please get in touch at hello@bmfoodcoop.org.au. Interested in attending a Board meeting? Just make sure you’re a current paid member and email us at least 24 hours before the meeting.
Giving Back to Our Community
At the Co-op, we’re committed to making a positive impact in our community. Each year, we donate 10% of our annual surplus to support community groups working in social justice, environmental sustainability, and food-related initiatives.
In addition to this core commitment, we regularly contribute to local not-for-profit organisations and actively fundraise for community causes and emergency relief efforts. Supporting those who support others is at the heart of what we do.
Annual Reports
Each year, a detailed report of our financial, community and shop progress is put together by our management team and the Board so our membership and the local community may have a holistic and thorough understanding of the Co-op’s position and commitment to our values.
Work With Us
We love hearing from passionate people! If you’re interested in future opportunities with us, feel free to send your resume to jobs@bmfoodcoop.org.au.