Good Foods Co-op

For those in Kentucky who prioritize healthy eating, sustainable sourcing, and supporting local businesses, Good Foods Co-op in Lexington is more than just a grocery store – it's a cornerstone of the community. As Central Kentucky's only locally owned and operated cooperative grocery, it has been serving residents since 1972, fostering a unique approach to food that emphasizes quality, transparency, and community well-being. It’s a place where you can confidently shop for ingredients that nourish both your body and the local economy.

A "grocery store" might seem like a simple concept, but Good Foods Co-op elevates it to a new level. Unlike conventional supermarkets, a co-op is owned and democratically controlled by its members – in this case, over 9,000 proud owners. This model means that the store's priorities are aligned with its community's values, focusing on sourcing, sustainability, and education rather than just profit. For Kentuckians, this translates to unparalleled access to fresh, natural, and organic products, often sourced directly from local farmers and producers right here in the Commonwealth. It's a place where every dollar spent helps to cultivate a more equitable and sustainable local food system.

Whether you're an owner or a first-time visitor, Good Foods Co-op welcomes everyone to explore its aisles and discover a world of wholesome foods and unique products. From everyday staples to specialty items, it's designed to be a comprehensive resource for a healthier lifestyle.

Good Foods Co-op is conveniently located at 455 Southland Dr, Lexington, KY 40503, USA. Situated in the heart of Lexington, this spot makes it highly accessible for residents across the city and surrounding areas of Central Kentucky. Southland Drive is a well-established commercial corridor, known for its various shops and services, which means the co-op is easy to find and navigate to.

The location offers the benefit of being integrated into a familiar neighborhood, providing ample parking for shoppers. Its presence on Southland Drive ensures that it’s on a main route, making it a practical destination for daily grocery runs or for a dedicated trip to stock up on specialty items. The ease of access contributes to the co-op's role as a convenient and essential resource for healthy living in the Lexington community.

Whether you're coming from downtown Lexington, the University of Kentucky campus, or one of the surrounding residential areas, reaching Good Foods Co-op is straightforward, reinforcing its position as a go-to spot for conscious consumers.

Good Foods Co-op offers a diverse range of products and services that go beyond what you might find in a typical grocery store, reflecting its commitment to health, sustainability, and community. Here’s a detailed look:

• Extensive Grocery Selection: The core offering includes a wide array of natural, organic, non-GMO products, and wholesome foods. This encompasses:
  • Fresh, Local, and Organic Produce: A strong emphasis on seasonal fruits and vegetables, often sourced from over 250 Kentucky farmers and producers.
  • Natural and Local Meats: Ethically sourced meats, including options like Joe Weber—Farmer Joe's Ancestral Blend Ground Beef.
  • Sustainably-Fished Seafood: Committed to responsible sourcing for their seafood selection.
  • Gourmet Cheese and Olive Bar: A selection of specialty cheeses and olives for enthusiasts.
  • Made-from-Scratch Baked Goods: Freshly baked items to complement your meals or for a sweet treat.
  • Specialty Products: Including unique spices, supplements, and vitamins, catering to various dietary needs and preferences.
• Bulk Foods Section: A highlight for many customers, allowing them to purchase dry goods, baking needs, snacks, herbs, and spices in bulk. This reduces packaging waste and often offers cost savings, although some users note that prices for certain items like granola or coffee beans can be higher.
• Grab & Go and Prepared Foods: For those on the go, the co-op offers a variety of prepared meals, including:
  • Deli Hot Food Bar: A popular feature with a rotating selection of hot dishes, including their "world-famous" kale.
  • Salad Bar: Fresh ingredients for custom salads.
  • Fresh Sushi: Made with organic ingredients.
  • Deli Salads and Sandwiches: Freshly made options for lunch or dinner.
  • Grilled Sandwiches and Wraps: Quick and healthy meal solutions.
• Beverage Bar:
  • Coffee/Tea/Juice/Smoothie Bar: Offering organic fair-trade coffee, real fruit smoothies, and an espresso bar.
  • Organic Juice Bar: Freshly made juices.
• Body Care and Wellness Products: A dedicated section for natural and organic body care items with transparent ingredient lists.
• Gluten-Free and Vegetarian/Vegan Options: A wide variety of products catering to specific dietary requirements.
• Cafe and Dining Area: A comfortable space with free wireless internet where customers can enjoy their prepared foods or beverages.

Good Foods Co-op is celebrated for several distinctive features that make it a beloved institution in Lexington:

• Cooperative Ownership Model: As Central Kentucky's only locally owned and operated cooperative grocery, it stands apart. This means the store is owned by its thousands of members, ensuring that its mission and values are driven by the community's best interests, focusing on healthy food access, education, and supporting local systems.
• Strong Commitment to Local Sourcing: The co-op actively supports over 250 Kentucky farmers and producers, ensuring that a significant portion of their produce, meats, and other products are locally sourced. This not only provides fresh, seasonal options but also boosts the local economy.
• Focus on Natural, Organic, and Non-GMO Products: Good Foods Co-op is a leader in the natural food movement in Lexington, prioritizing products that are free from harmful chemicals and genetically modified organisms, aligning with the values of health-conscious consumers.
• Expansive Bulk Foods Section: This popular section allows customers to buy exactly what they need, reducing waste and often saving money on dry goods, spices, and more. While some items might be pricier, the variety and environmental benefit are significant.
• Prepared Foods and Cafe: The hot bar, salad bar, and fresh sushi counter, along with a full cafe offering coffee, smoothies, and baked goods, provide convenient and healthy meal options for busy individuals. The "world-famous" kale on the hot bar is a particular draw.
• Community Engagement and Education: The co-op actively engages with the community through classes, sampling events, and trivia nights in its cafe. It's committed to education that cultivates "food citizenship" and promotes access to healthy food for all.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Good Foods Co-op has a strong focus on environmental sustainability, with initiatives like installing electric vehicle charging stations, reducing waste through bulk options, and promoting environmentally friendly practices. They are a recognized Green Check business in Lexington.
• Voted "Best Grocery Store in Kentucky": This recognition from various polls and media outlets underscores its reputation for quality, selection, and overall customer satisfaction.
• Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: The co-op prides itself on being an open and welcoming space for everyone, regardless of membership status, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Good Foods Co-op, like most grocery stores, offers various ways for customers to save and enjoy special benefits, particularly for its owners. While specific promotions may change, here are some common types of offers you might find:

• Owner-Exclusive Sales and Discounts: While everyone is welcome to shop, owners typically enjoy special sales and discounts as a benefit of their membership. This provides incentive for locals to join the co-op community.
• Co-op Basics Super Saver Program: This program is designed to offer cost-effective, high-quality products, making healthy food more accessible to a wider audience. It focuses on value-driven pricing on everyday essentials.
• Round Up Program ("Give Where You Live"): Good Foods Co-op has a continuous program where shoppers can "round up" their purchase total at the register to the nearest dollar. The collected change is then donated to local charity partners each month, showcasing their commitment to community support. In 2024, this program raised over $18,000 for local nonprofits.
• Seasonal Promotions and New Product Launches: The co-op often features special promotions tied to seasonal produce, holidays, or the introduction of new local products. These might be advertised in-store, through their newsletters, or on their social media channels.
• Owner Loan Capital Campaigns: Periodically, the co-op may run campaigns allowing owners to invest in the future of the store through loans, which can sometimes come with specific benefits or interest rates, helping to fund improvements and maintain financial stability.
• Educational Events and Samplings: While not direct discounts, the co-op frequently hosts classes and sampling events, providing opportunities to try new products and learn more about healthy cooking or lifestyles, often at no additional cost.
• Gift Cards: Good Foods gift cards are available in any amount at the Hospitality Desk or any register, making them a flexible gift option.

To stay up-to-date on the latest promotions, it's highly recommended for locals to check the Good Foods Co-op website, subscribe to their newsletter, or follow their social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter).

If you wish to learn more, inquire about products, or become an owner, here's how to reach Good Foods Co-op:

• Address: 455 Southland Dr, Lexington, KY 40503, USA
• Phone: (859) 278-1813

You can also find their current store and cafe hours on their website, and they offer phone-in orders for cafe pick-up. Their team is ready to assist you with any questions about their products, services, or membership.

For the diverse and health-conscious residents of Kentucky, particularly those in the Lexington area, Good Foods Co-op is uniquely positioned as the ideal grocery store. It transcends the typical retail experience, embodying a deep commitment to community, health, and sustainability that resonates strongly with local values.

Firstly, its cooperative structure means it's fundamentally driven by the needs and desires of its over 9,000 local owners. This ensures that the product selection, store policies, and community initiatives are all aligned with what truly matters to Kentuckians – access to high-quality, natural, and organic foods. By shopping here, locals directly contribute to a business that prioritizes people over profit, with half of every dollar spent reportedly going back into the community.

Secondly, the co-op's unwavering focus on local sourcing is a tremendous benefit. Supporting over 250 Kentucky farmers and producers means that the food on your plate is not only fresh and often seasonal but also helps to bolster the agricultural economy right here in the Commonwealth. This creates a tangible connection between consumers and the local food system, fostering a sense of pride and community resilience.

Moreover, Good Foods Co-op offers a comprehensive solution for a healthy lifestyle. From its extensive bulk section that promotes zero-waste shopping to its renowned hot bar, organic juice bar, and wide selection of gluten-free and vegan options, it caters to a spectrum of dietary needs and preferences. It's not just about groceries; it's about providing the resources and knowledge for residents to live healthier, more sustainable lives.

Finally, the co-op is a true community hub. Its educational events, commitment to social responsibility through programs like "Give Where You Live," and its recognition as the "best grocery store in Kentucky" all underscore its integral role in the fabric of Lexington. For Kentuckians seeking a grocery store that aligns with their values, offers exceptional products, and actively enriches their community, Good Foods Co-op is undoubtedly the place to shop.