Business Details
42 Years
experience
Your Community-Owned Grocery Store in Carbondale, IL
Founded in 1984, Neighborhood Co-op Co-op has been a cornerstone of the Carbondale community, dedicated to providing wholesome, sustainably sourced foods while fostering local economic growth. As a member-owned cooperative, we operate under core values of self-responsibility, democracy, and social responsibility, ensuring every product meets rigorous health and quality standards. Our commitment to environmental stewardship is exemplified by our EPA GreenChill certification, the first in Southern Illinois. Through initiatives like the Wooden Nickel program and Link Match, we actively support local charities and food security efforts. With over 40 years of service, we combine cooperative principles with modern retail practices to deliver exceptional value to our owners and patrons.Our team of experienced professionals, including industry veterans like General Manager Francis Murphy, ensures seamless operations across departments from produce to wellness. By participating in the National Cooperative Grocers Association, we leverage collective buying power while maintaining local control. We offer exclusive owner benefits including quarterly discounts, educational programs, and community events that strengthen our regional food economy. Our transparent business practices and refundable $100 membership shares reflect our dedication to accessible, community-driven commerce. Through continuous innovation in product standards and sustainable practices, we remain committed to nourishing both people and the planet.
Services
Deli
Bakery
Bulk Foods
Produce
Wellness Products
Takeout Catering
Gift Cards
Owner Education
Community Donations
Local Sourcing
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We offer 100% non-GMO, organic products with no artificial additives
- Community-focused with quarterly local donation programs
- Owner benefits include quarterly 10% discounts and educational events
- EPA-certified sustainable refrigeration practices
- Support local economy through regional food sourcing
Associations and certifications
- GreenChill (EPA)
What people say
Exceptional product quality
Community-focused initiatives
Knowledgeable staff
Owner discounts
Local sourcing
Services
Deli
Our full-service deli offers daily hot meals, sandwiches, and specialty items made with organic and local ingredients. Menu features include pizza by the slice, bean & cheese burritos, and vegan options. Catering available for events with advance notice.
Bulk Foods
Over 200 bulk items available including grains, nuts, spices, and household products. Customers bring own containers to reduce waste. Products meet strict non-GMO and additive-free standards.
Wellness
Comprehensive wellness section featuring vitamins, supplements, and natural personal care items. Products are carefully vetted for quality and efficacy. Staff available for product recommendations.
Local Produce
Seasonal produce sourced from regional farms whenever possible. Certified organic options available. Strict quality control ensures freshness and nutritional value.
Community Programs
Owner appreciation discounts, wooden nickel donations, and Link Match program for SNAP recipients. Annual owner events and educational workshops strengthen community connections.
People
Francis Murphy
General Manager
Overseeing daily operations with 15+ years of cooperative grocery experience. Focuses on sustainable business practices and community engagement. Holds cooperative management certification.
Emily Yates
Brand Manager
Leads marketing and design initiatives with expertise in cooperative branding. Manages digital communications and community outreach programs. 8 years with the organization.
Greg Wharton
Grocery Operations Manager
Manages inventory and product standards with emphasis on local sourcing. Ensures compliance with strict non-GMO and additive-free policies. 12 years in cooperative retail.
Hannah Byers
Wellness Manager
Curates natural health product selection and provides wellness education. Certified nutritionist with specialized training in herbal supplements and holistic health.
Jason Hull
Prepared Foods Manager
Oversees deli operations and catering services. Develops recipes using organic ingredients. 10 years experience in cooperative food service management.
Questions
What makes Neighborhood Co-op Co-op Co-op different from other grocery stores?
We're member-owned with strict product standards prohibiting GMOs and artificial additives. Our community programs and environmental initiatives create local impact.
Do I need to be an owner to shop at the Co-op?
No, anyone can shop here. Owners receive quarterly discounts, voting rights, and access to exclusive events and educational programs.
What are the owner benefits?
Owners get 10% off one purchase quarterly, annual dividends, event invitations, and voting rights for board elections and policy decisions.
How does the Wooden Nickel donation program work?
Each quarter, we collect funds through customer donations at checkout to support local charities focused on people, environment, and animals.
What food standards do you enforce?
All products meet our strict standards: no artificial preservatives, colors, flavors, sweeteners, or chemical additives. We prohibit GMOs.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, we provide takeout catering with advance notice. Menu options include breakfast, lunch, and dinner selections made with organic ingredients.
Reviews (6)
Sarah Zeman
Jan 13, 2022
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As a co-op owner there are tons of deals and specials! Great store, love the prepared food and bakery.
Nakubda
Dec 27, 2021
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Pale has been a bright spot in the darkness of these two years. Always there w a friendly smile, and a positive attitude! And to see him have to repeatedly remind people to wear a mask was a drag. Thank you, Pale and Co Op for providing a safe and positive place to shop, and being a good role model in the community!
Marsha Hall
Dec 13, 2021
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Stopped in for some Dolmas and found them in the deli section. They were as good as I hoped. Good store for produce, general grocery items and specialty items.
Marcia Dunn
Oct 24, 2021
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It may be a good co-op? I had only shopped a few minutes, when a voice behind me announced that I needed to move out of the way. I had gone to an unoccupied corner to take an urgent cell-call from a family member. I pulled my covid mask down to take the call and was distanced from anyone. The voice then barked "Put your mask on, PUT YOUR MASK ON! I replied YES M'AME! The employee then screamed at me while pulling down his mask, "Do I look like a mame to you??? I had not actually looked at the barking employee, and now saw a beard, but had replied to what I thought was a woman's voice. He was rude
Lanna Horman
Feb 02, 2020
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If I'm in Carbondale I make sure to stop here! Employees are always super nice and helpful. The store is clean and kept very neat and tidy. Restrooms are clean. Big selection of wholesome, quality, natural foods! Deli is superb and I don't leave without grabbing a slice of pizza, a cookie and a drink (all made with healthy ingredients of course.)
Schultheis Productions
Dec 03, 2019
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The absolute best place in town to get fresh and organic food, beauty products, and sustainable products. The selection of health products is amazing, I have never once seen this many different organic and natural items available in one place. All the spices beans coffee and a lot more Do not come in containers, you just bring your own.
