Frequently Asked Questions

A: Cooperatives are member-owned, member-governed businesses that operate for the benefit of their owners (members) according to common principles established by the international cooperative community. Co-op owners pool resources together to bring about economic results for the benefit of the entire co-op community. Read more.

A: No, everyone is welcome. There are benefits to ownership, but anyone is welcome to shop at the Co-op.

A: No, you don’t have to work to become an owner. However, if you would like to become a working-owner you can earn a 10% discount by volunteering with us for a few hours a month. Our Ownership Coordinator can help you find a time slot that works for you and for the needs of the Co-op.

A: For a single adult household you must work two hours a month. For a household with two or more adults, you must work a total of four hours, which can be shared with the other adults. 

A: The total equity requirement is $200. The amount can be paid at once or in annual installments of $20 a year for 10 years.

A: There is no membership fee. Once owner equity is paid in full, co-op ownership is for life. At any time, a co-op owner may close their ownership and all equity paid to-date will be returned, minus an initial $10 processing fee.

A: By becoming an owner of the Co-op, you are supporting a democratic organization dedicated to supplying healthy food, sharing information, practicing economic and environmental sustainability, and encouraging community strength. Owners receive special incentives such as Bonus Buys and special sale events, as well as discounts on special orders. There are also convenient benefits like e-mail receipts, coffee tracking (every ninth cup is free), and WebCart accounts. When the Co-op generates positive net income, owners are eligible for patronage dividends. 

A: Owners may purchase items at a discount by ordering products by the case or in other limited quantities. Department managers can help with special orders. Most  grocery items can be ordered as a full case for a 15% discount. Vitamins must be  purchased in quantities of 3 for a 20% discount.

A: While the Co-op tries to buy as much organic product as possible, not everything we carry is certified organic. We strive to promote healthy food choices by offering locally-produced, sustainably-grown, and ethically-sourced food products. You can find our buying policy here.

A: There are many definitions of local food. We consider “local” to include products that are Maine grown and/or Maine produced as well as products from businesses based in Maine. We love to support local businesses, farms, and food producers, especially around the Blue Hill Peninsula. Most local products in the store are marked with blue “LOCAL MAINE” tags.

A: Great, we’d love to see it! Send an email to bluehillcoop@bluehill.coop.

A: Our priority is customer satisfaction. If for any reason, you are not satisfied with a product you purchased from us, you may return it. Please present a receipt of purchase for a full refund. If you do not have a receipt, we will issue a store credit. Please note, returned items are received back at the discretion of department managers. Ask for the Wellness Manager for vitamin, body care and other wellness product returns. *Our return policy is subject to change due to COVID-19 precautions.