Plainfield Co-op & Community Center

3

Are you interested in contributing your leadership skills to a local community-owned business? Would you be inspired by running the daily operations of a growing and evolving mission-driven organization? Do you enjoy a working environment where members of the community gather and connect? If this is you, then you may be cut out to be the Store Manager of the Plainfield Co-op! We are a member-owned grocery store focusing on natural foods, in operation since 1972.

Why Choose Plainfield Co-op?
- Lead and manage a thriving cooperative with coaching from a professional management consultant to help you succeed
- Work alongside a dedicated team committed to providing outstanding service
- Make a difference by becoming an integral part of a supportive and caring community
- Help to shape the future of our co-op

What You'll Bring:
- Strong leadership skills and a collaborative approach to management
- Experience in retail or grocery management preferred
- Commitment to upholding our cooperative values and mission

Position Details:
- Full-time, non-exempt opportunity with competitive pay ranging from $22-$24/hr (based on experience)
- Opportunity for growth and advancement within the organization

For the full job description and to apply, go here: https://plainfieldcoop.com/careers

Embark on a rewarding career journey as Store Manager at Plainfield Co-op – where your passion and leadership skills can thrive!

Hello Plainfield Co-op Community-

Many of you have been eagerly (and patiently) waiting for news about the expansion and relocation project. We continue to move forward with the plan to purchase Plainfield Hardware and move the Co-op to that location. It is a big project for a little co-op. As our financial consultant said, "The numbers work, but it is going to take a lot of heart." Our beloved Co-op has survived for over 50 years because of the strong support of the community and staff. I think we have the "heart" this will take. As a Board member, I am confident that we are making the right choice for the future of the Co-op, but it is going to take all of us to make it happen.

It has been a busy few months of writing grants and working with staff, consultants, lenders, and lawyers as the Board has done the due diligence to determine how to proceed. The owners of the hardware store are supportive and eager to work with the Co-op. Next steps involve more member engagement and transparency. We want you to share your vision for the future of this community owned store. We will maintain the hardware, deli, and greenhouse operations while significantly expanding the grocery selection to include more local and organic products. The goal is to become a store that can be the primary location for your weekly shopping, rather than traveling to Montpelier as most in the community do currently. What else could this store become over the next 5, 10, 20 years?

Here are some ways to be involved:

In the short term, we are working to stabilize and improve operations at the current store location. Sales continue to be down compared to prior years but we are finding ways to improve business practices so that every dollar spent is used effectively. We all need to continue to shop at the Co-op to keep the business going. Cash flow is extremely tight, staff need our support, and vendors need to be paid.

Keep your eyes out for an upcoming member information meeting. We will be sharing financial information, including the sources and uses of funds and details on projected sales/expenses/profits/cash flow. And we will be asking for your feedback and ideas!

We will be launching a Capital Campaign to raise money through member loans. Many co-ops in Vermont have used this model to raise money for projects like ours. Strong member support allows our other lenders to feel confident that the project has the support of the community. This is your store!

Please reach out with questions and comments to board@plainfieldcoop.com or contact any Board members individually.

Thank you!

Plainfield Co-op Board of Directors