Celebrating Growth and Community Strength

A warm hello to our co-op members and customers from the Board of Directors! As your Board President for the last two years, I am proud to reconnect and share some exciting updates about our co-op’s progress over the past year. Together with our new CEO Matt Kappra and our COO Steve Sapoznik, we have built on our foundation of cooperative values and natural food leadership, and the results speak for themselves: 7.3% growth in our co-op’s revenue from 2024, a steadily expanding membership community of 309 (growth of 2.3% from 2024) and a phenomenal turnaround of our incubating venture – Valley’s Own Bakehouse!

Our Bakehouse has been a shining example of how strategic investment, the right expertise, and member support can drive innovation and value. By narrowing product offerings, modernizing equipment, and refining recipes, the Bakehouse has strengthened our co-op’s reputation for high-quality, locally made goods. Our Bakehouse pilot sales have grown at a pace well above expectations with our lovely Kakookies (who can resist Kakookies? 😊) selling far and wide in Texas, Florida, New York, and everywhere in between, proving that when we invest thoughtfully in our innovations, we create lasting value for both our members and our broader community.

Beyond the Bakehouse, our co-op’s overall performance has been equally encouraging. Revenues continue to trend upward, reflecting both increased member loyalty and new customers discovering the unique value of shopping co-operatively. Our growth has not come at the expense of our principles; instead, it reinforces our commitment to local farmers, sustainable sourcing, and fair labor practices. Each dollar spent at the co-op circulates back into our community, strengthening the regional food system and supporting neighbors who share our values.

Membership growth is another highlight. More households are choosing to become co-op members, demonstrating confidence in our mission and excitement for the future. Each new member adds to the vibrancy of our cooperative model, broadening our collective voice and deepening the impact we can make.

Looking ahead, the Board remains committed to balancing responsible growth with fiscal stewardship and mission integrity. The Bakehouse will continue to be a hub of creativity and excellence, and we will look for additional opportunities to reinvest in areas that bring the greatest benefit to our members and our community.

I am thankful for steady leadership of our Board of Directors and Executive Committee, the strategic vision and execution of our CEO Matt and the steady leadership of our COO Steve. On behalf of the entire Board, thank you for your trust, engagement, and continued support. Together, we are proving that cooperative growth is sustainable growth—nourishing our community while building a stronger future.

Yours in service and community,

Sarah Johansson

President, Valley Natural Foods

Board of Directors