Mission-driven marketing: Rocky Mountain co-ops expand opportunities for sustainable food production

摘要

In response to the growing demand for locally grown and sustainably produced foods, two cooperatives have taken root in the Rocky Mountain region. The High Plains Food Cooperative (HPFC) serves member consumers and producers in a virtual marketplace,using Internet-based sales. The Colorado Farm and Art Market (CFAM) builds relationships through fostering personal contact between growers and buyers at bi-weekly farmers' markets. In this article, we share the stories of how these organizations came to be, what philosophies link the organizations and how they created vibrant local foods communities through cooperation.