In southern Vermont, specifically in the town of Brattleboro, the Brattleboro food coop is renowned for its various contributions to the local economy. It is a large building that contains a market, deli, commissary kitchen, and 24 apartments. It was built in 1975. Business is conducted outside of a traditional business model. All members of the Coop earn the profits, with the main goal of strengthening the local economy and improving the farm-to-table idea. To really maintain the prevalence of these local establishments, the coop sells to the general public as well, with members of the coop being highly knowledgeable in the local area. There are currently 8,000 shareholders, with extra services provided such as classes and donation programs. It can likely handle several thousand more supporters and a decent amount more customers in general, but after a certain point it would be necessary to outsource goods to larger entities, which goes against the original goal of highlighting local industries. In my opinion, from the goods and services that I have seen along with the personal knowledge of those working there, the coop is certainly a positive influence on southern Vermont and surrounding communities.