14 Carrots: New London Co-op

New London, New Hampshire: After 18 years as a privately owned natural foods store, 14 Carrots became a member-owned cooperative on August 1. Says general manager Rick Libbey, "Our mission statement is simple. Our goal is to provide products and information for healthy living."

Former owner Carol Stedman stated, "I owned 14 Carrots for 18 years. We grew continuously during that time. We have loyal customers who want to continue to have a true natural foods market in New London that provides high quality product choices, expertise, and education for consumers. This is the best way we can think of to make that happen and to keep 14 Carrots strong." Certified Nutritionist Linda Howes says, "It also creates participation in the governance of a democratically owned business and an opportunity to put values into action. It supports local suppliers, farmers, healthy communities, healthy people, and environmental issues."

An equity share investment of $120 earns a household membership good for 1 to 4 adults. Each membership includes one voting share for the household. Additional member benefits include patronage dividends, member sales, discounts on supplements, special bulk and case-lot prices, coupons, discount prices on classes and educational events, as well as possible savings with other local businesses. Members also receive a subscription to the 14 Carrots Co-op newsletter.

14 Carrots Natural Foods Cooperative is located in the New London Shopping Center, Newport Road, New London, New Hampshire; call 603/526-2323 for more information. Everyone is welcome to shop, member or not.