.png)
OPENING IN 2025!
Heading 5
🌟 Another Milestone for West Chester Co-op!
We’re thrilled to announce a major commitment from Propell Credit Union: over $300,000 in support of West Chester Co-op.
Propell is more than a financial institution — they’re a true community partner. By investing in our co-op, they’re sending a powerful message: they believe in a locally owned grocery store that keeps dollars in West Chester, supports local farmers and producers, and strengthens our community for generations to come.
This milestone brings us one step closer to opening our doors.
We are thrilled to share a major milestone for the West Chester Cooperative!
Bill Ronayne, owner of Brandywine Valley HVAC (BVHVAC), and member-owner #712 of the WC Co-op has donated a generous gift of $75,000 toward the buildout of our full service community-owned grocery store at 204 West Market Street.
Bill’s generosity is not only a powerful investment in the Co-op’s future but also a shining example of how local business leaders are stepping up to support a stronger, healthier food system right here in West Chester.
When asked why he made such a generous donation, Bill explained:
“It is the right thing to do. The Co-op’s core values line up with the core values of Brandywine Valley HVAC Company.”
He also shared what inspires his support for the project:
“I’ve always believed in giving back to the community that supports me. The Co-op represents something important—neighbors coming together to create a space that serves everyone. I’m proud to be part of making it a reality.”
Bill and BVHVAC are well-known throughout the county for supporting a wide range of organizations, including schools, non-profits, churches, and many other community initiatives. Their commitment to giving back goes far beyond this generous Co-op donation.
This gift helps us cover essential construction costs and brings us closer to opening our doors. With each investment like Bill’s, we are on the path to creating a grocery store that prioritizes local farmers, fresh food, and community connection.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Bill and BVHVAC for their commitment to the Co-op and to West Chester. Their generosity demonstrates the power of local businesses to make a lasting difference.
THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO FOR THE WEST CHESTER COMMUNITY BILL!
1
Keeping Money Local
Co-ops are community-owned, reinvesting profits locally through support for suppliers, fair-wage jobs, and community projects. Unlike corporations, they prioritize local impact over sending profits to distant shareholders.
2
Job Creation
Co-ops provide stable, fair-wage jobs for local residents. Unlike traditional businesses, co-ops prioritize employee and community well-being, leading to better retention and more satisfied workers.
3
Support for Local Producers
Food co-ops, in particular, tend to source products from local farmers, bakers, and artisans. This creates a reliable market for local producers, helping small businesses and farms grow and thrive.
4
Economic Resilience
Because co-ops are community-owned, they are less likely to relocate or shut down during economic downturns. They’re invested in the long-term success of the community.
5
Democratic Control
Members of co-ops have a voice in decision-making, ensuring the business aligns with local needs and values. This creates a more inclusive economy that represents the people it serves.
6
Reduced Economic Leakage
Spending at co-ops means fewer dollars leave the community. This reduces “economic leakage,” where money spent in chain stores or online retailers often flows out of the area.
7
Education and Advocacy
Co-ops often invest in community education about sustainable practices, nutrition, and local economic issues, empowering individuals to make informed decisions that benefit the local economy.
Benefits of being a membeR-owner
OWNERSHIP
You own a piece of the pie. The store is open to everyone to shop, but member-owners get a voice, an equal vote, and much more!
COMMUNITY
Connect with your community through events, education, conversations, volunteer opportunities, and more!
SUPPORT
The full-service grocery store features healthy, local products whenever possible. Your shopping supports our local economy and the environment!
DISCOUNTS
Member-owners get specials and promotions. Your one-time membership fee can pay for itself!
PARTICIPATE
Vote for Board members, recommend products you’d like to see on the shelves, volunteer to help, or become a leader yourself. Every member gets an equal vote!
The Cooperative Difference
Local fresh food for everyone
West Chester Cooperative is working to build a full-service community-owned grocery store in West Chester, Pennsylvania. The store will be open to everyone and will provide exceptional, fresh, healthy, locally-focused food at fair prices, seven days a week. If you want to make it happen, become a member-owner today!
OPENING SOON!
Preparation work is underway for YOUR cooperative grocery store at 204 W. Market Street! Your Executive Board and volunteers are working tirelessly to set the foundation for 2025.
Your help is needed now to meet the initial expenses before our main Capital Campaign kicks off with exclusive, member-only investment options next year.
Current Member Owner Count: 540
WHO WILL BE #541???
How Co-ops Benefit the Local Economy:
1
Keeping Money Local
Co-ops are community-owned, reinvesting profits locally through support for suppliers, fair-wage jobs, and community projects. Unlike corporations, they prioritize local impact over sending profits to distant shareholders.
2
Job Creation
Co-ops provide stable, fair-wage jobs for local residents. Unlike traditional businesses, co-ops prioritize employee and community well-being, leading to better retention and more satisfied workers.
3
Support for Local Producers
Food co-ops, in particular, tend to source products from local farmers, bakers, and artisans. This creates a reliable market for local producers, helping small businesses and farms grow and thrive.
4
Economic Resilience
Because co-ops are community-owned, they are less likely to relocate or shut down during economic downturns. They’re invested in the long-term success of the community.
5
Democratic Control
Members of co-ops have a voice in decision-making, ensuring the business aligns with local needs and values. This creates a more inclusive economy that represents the people it serves.
6
Reduced Economic Leakage
Spending at co-ops means fewer dollars leave the community. This reduces “economic leakage,” where money spent in chain stores or online retailers often flows out of the area.
7
Education and Advocacy
Co-ops often invest in community education about sustainable practices, nutrition, and local economic issues, empowering individuals to make informed decisions that benefit the local economy.
