This co-op survives because people want it to survive and thrive. It is a great concept. It provides jobs to people and gives back to the community. So does Wal-Mart, Costco, and just about every other place too. I gave it three stars because it serves it's purpose. However, I was turned off by the radical leftist- in your face - views by the patrons and the employees look like they just got done protesting at an Occupy Wall Street event before their shift. One of the associates had hair under her armpits and that was just plain disturbing. The prepared foods section had dishes to satisfy both vegetarians and non vegetarians. Seven dollars for a box of cheerios was also disturbing too.