It seems that the days of "Mom & Pop" stores, where the customers are known by their names rather than as a number, are disappearing quickly.  Smaller stores find it difficult to compete with the prices that the bulk buying mega-stores are able to offer.

You'll find the best of both worlds at the Essex County Co-Operative Farming Association.   Back in 1917, after loss of profits and rising cost of equipment and supplies, local farmers in Essex County banded together to find a solution.  The founding farmers formed the association to purchase larger quantities of farm supplies at a lower cost.  These bulk purchases enabled them to aid struggling farmers in the area. 

Today, the Co-Op is an old-fashioned country store that supports the farming community by selling locally grown plants and flowers as well as quality seeds, fertilizers, and animal feeds at the lowest possible prices.  The Co-Op carries a wide range of pet foods and supplies plus clothing and gifts.  We also fill propane and carry bulk landscaping materials like loam, mulch and compost. 

The store is open to the public 7 days a week and offers a large variety of items along with the charm and individual attention of a "Mom & Pop" store. 

Have you seen the Co-Op lately?