International Co-op Values

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 Aims

At the Blue Mountains Food Co-op, we’re proud to do business differently — putting people, 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.