Wild Onion doubles Chicago's co-op presence
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Wild Onion Market in Rogers Park emphasizes community and local products. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios
Earlier this summer I was thrilled to hear that Wild Onion Market in Rogers Park opened as the city's second operating co-op.
Why it matters: This cooperative form of retail can give locals more control of their shopping environment. It's huge in areas like the Twin Cities, but Chicago co-ops have struggled to open and survive.
Catch up quick: In 2008 the venerable Hyde Park Co-op closed after 75 years.
- The Chicago Market at Wilson and Broadway has been trying to open for years.
- The Austin Community Food Co-op has also faced big setbacks recently.
Yes, but: The Sugar Beet in Oak Park and The Dill Pickle in Logan Square have kept chugging along despite some ups and downs.
How it works: You can shop at a co-op as you would a regular grocery store, but those who pay to become co-owners (at Wild Onion it costs $250) enjoy a 5% discount once a month and help make decisions about the store's operation.
- In profitable years, owners can also reap dividends from the business.
- Wild Onion has 2,250 owners and is looking for more.
Driving the news: The store hosted its grand opening celebration yesterday after a soft opening last month.
Zoom in: Wild Onion offers a small cafe and bakery, a wine and beer section, a large cheese and charcuterie area, eco-friendly cleaning products, fresh produce, local dairy and a decent-size produce section.
- Also, lots of kombucha.
My experience: I loved the easy parking, the friendly atmosphere and the thoughtful array of bulk, sustainable and local products, including Publican Quality Bread, White Oak Gourmet prepared foods and Finn's Ranch pastured eggs.
- Prices are not Aldi-low but seem fair for the high quality.
- I bought some goat cheese, blanched almonds, cottage cheese and kefir, and I loved the cozy cafe area, where I hope to sip some chai and catch up with friends soon.