Timeline
The West Chester Cooperative board, volunteers, member-owners and community partners are working towards opening the doors of a full-service, brick and mortar store. The timeline below illustrates each distinct and important stage of development. Completed tasks are highlighted. We are currently in Stage 2B.
ORGANIZING: 0 - 200 Member-Owners
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Organize
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Hold community meetings
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Conduct community survey
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Form board and incorporate
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Launch membership drive
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Develop internal systems
Stage 1
FEASIBILITY: 200 - 400 Member-Owners
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Explore sites
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Conduct market research study and feasibility analysis
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Develop capital plan
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Setup member loan committee and finance committee
Stage 2a
PLANNING: 400 - 600 Member-Owners
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Secure Site
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Finalize business plan
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Prepare for member-owner loan campaign
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Plan for GM hire
Stage 2b
PRE-CONSTRUCTION: 600 - 800 Member-Owners
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Secure external funding
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Launch member-owner loan campaign
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Finalize plans for store design
Stage 3A
CONSTRUCTION & OPENING PREP: 800 - 1200 Member-Owners
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Hire and train staff
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Order and install equipment and inventory
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Final pre-opening member-owner drive
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Promote store opening