The 7 Cooperative Principles on which all Co-ops are founded:

1. Open and voluntary membership
2. Democratic member control
3. Member economic participation
4. Autonomy and independence
5. Education, training and information
6. Cooperation among cooperatives
7. Concern for the community

The Kootenay Co-op Statement of Principles:

The Kootenay Co-op is an association which was set up to provide high quality, wholesome food at reasonable prices to residents of Nelson, the Slocan Valley and surrounding areas.

We believe that where possible, such food should be organically produced and that local growers or processors should receive preferential treatment as suppliers.
We believe in the principles of community cooperation and will further this principle through educational programs and any other means available.

We believe in building a truly democratic organization with complete member involvement, where the principle of one member, one vote will be adhered to irrespective of the number of shares held by any individual.