Blogging the COG

Did you ever think, "boy if I ran this store, things would be a lot different?". Well, here’s your chance. There’s a new grocery store in town and I’m member number 408. The COG  is a start-up co-op modeled after the Park Slope Co-op. For now, it is located in a warehouse in Emeryville and shopping is on-line. It’s all very new so there aren’t any perishable goods yet, but as things evolve it will be a full-service grocery store. Think Rainbow with meat. Already It looks like the savings will be substantial over Whole Foods and other similar stores once it all gets going. For now offerings are limited, so it’s a bit of a leap of faith, but one I have no problem making. Bulk is reportedly coming soon and refrigeration maybe this summer. All products are vetted based on sustainability, packaging, and quality and there is a strong commitment to carrying local products. There’s a $25 fee to join and a refundable (if you leave the COG) $100 investment (payable in installments). Members must work 2 1/2 hours a month. It’s one step toward getting off the corporate food grid.