GROWING BIGGER. The Menomonie Market Food Co-Op, here pictured with Marketing Manager Kendall Williams and Events Coordinator Becca Schoenborn, is expanding to Eau Claire through a merger with Just Local Food Cooperative, which will be branded as Menomonie Market Food Co-Op by 2022.

Menomonie Market Food Co-Op and Just Local Food Co-Op owners recently voted to approve merging the two co-ops, with 95% of both ownerships groups voting in favor of the merger.

“Our two cooperatives can accomplish so much more together than we could apart,” said Rick Remington, MMFC Board and Collaboration Committee member in a press release, “and we are excited to write the next chapter in our history.”

The combined 4,500 owners of the co-ops will be exposed to new products and vendors through the merger – meaning more than 200 local growers, producers, and processors will have the opportunity to increase their sales and customer base through the co-op’s growth.

“The incredible turnout and strong vote of support for the merger of JLF and MMFC will bring life to the cooperative spirit, and our owners, staff, farmers, and communities will reap great benefits,” said Karlee Wallin, member of JLF’s Board and Collaboration Committee.

The combined co-op will be called “Menomonie Market Food Co-op,” and the Eau Claire location will begin transitioning to MMFC’s brand in early 2022.

“This cooperative effort will further our mission of healthy communities,” said Mariann Holm, MMFC Board and Collaboration Committee member, “and provide fertile ground for rural renaissance.”

Read more at mmfc.coop/merger.