As a result of a class in whole
foods offered through the "Free University" program at
UW-L in 1973, several people decided to form a buying club.
Their intent was to put into practice what they had learned in
class - to provide themselves with a source of high quality, low
cost, minimally processed food.
At first, the group stored food they bought in the basement of a
house on 10th and Badger. Then the Co-op members rented a
building at 403 Avon St. and started a retail store, staffed
entirely by volunteers.
In the late 70's, the Co-op moved to a new and larger building
on 8th and Adams St. Still staffed by volunteers, the store
opened full time in 1978.
In 1979, Frank Menolascino was hired as the first manager.
May, 1981: The Co-op opens for
business at 911 Adams St., the site of the former Bruha's
Grocery building. The People's Food Co-op now operates with a
co-manager system: Frank Menolascino, Peg Nolan and Margaret
Mills.
March 1, 1993: PFC moves to 315 5th Ave South in downtown
La Crosse.
1994: The co-manager system is dissolved.
May, 1998: PFC purchased the house and lot next to the Co-op.
January, 2001: After 16 years, Peg Nolan resigns as General Manager to accept a position with Co-op Development Services.
May, 2001: Michelle Schry accepts the position of General Manager.
January 2004: Construction and remodeling for the expansion project begins.
November 10, 2004: The newly expanded store and Hackberry's Bistro open for business.
January 22-30th, 2005: Members, customers, staff, and board come together to celebrate Grand Opening Week.
See photos of our former locations!
|
