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Become a Vendor

Thank you for your interest in the Marquette Food Co-op as a potential outlet for your products. We are proud to sell high-quality local food and goods, and are eager to support local and regional suppliers. Together we can make our local economies stronger. Read the following steps to find out how to become a supplier.

What do local and regional mean?

• Local refers to products produced, gathered, or grown in any part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
• Regional refers to products produced, gathered, or grown in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Indiana, or Ohio.

Step 1: Need To Know Information

• Many factors influence our buyers’ decisions. As watchdogs for our owners’ and community’s health, we expect the highest standards in the products we carry.
• Preference is given to items of superior quality and ethical integrity, have environmentally-friendly as well as attractive packaging, are in high demand, come market-ready, and can be supplied on a consistent basis.
• Your products will need to meet the standards outlined in our buying policy. In order for us to sell your product, it must meet those standards consistently.
• Have a wholesale price list as well as your production capacity for each product. We are not able to determine what you should charge for your products. This is up to you, based on what you need to make it profitable. Keep in mind that freight, fuel, and handling costs you impose on us will be added to the shelf price of your product. Set your wholesale price accordingly. (The Produce Department sets their prices according to current market value.)
• One of our buyers will work with you to determine the quantity of your product our store will likely purchase. Once a working relationship is established, our Co-op will place orders for your product(s) based on a mutually-beneficial ordering system.
• You will be expected to provide licenses and permits if they pertain to you. In certain cases, we may ask for proof of liability insurance.
• Be prepared to provide us with samples upon request. Do not drop off samples until this request has been made.

Please understand there is NO guarantee that the Marquette Food Co-op will purchase or carry your product.

Step 2: Complete the Vendor Application.

You will need to attach a wholesale price list and any other promotional materials you may have to the end of the application.

Step 3: You will be contacted by the appropriate manager within two weeks of submitting your application.

• Grocery Department: grocery@marquettefood.coop
• Wellness Department: wellness@marquettefood.coop
• Produce Department: produce@marquettefood.coop

Our managers are unable to meet with you during unscheduled times.