Got a Great Product?
We want to hear from you!
We are always looking for True Local suppliers with fantastic products. Take a read through the FAQ’s below, fill out the application form and we will be in touch!
true local supplier faq’s
Where do I have to live to be considered True Local?
Anywhere within a 160km of our store counts as True Local. Roughly that works out to as far as Nakusp in the North, Fernie in the East, Creston to the South, and Grand Forks to the West.
What do you consider when you bring in new products?
We look for products that our customers will love! We consider demand in a category, competitive pricing and if products meet our buying guidelines.
In order to be considered as a True Local supplier, you will need to have the following;
- a business license
- products must be made in a kitchen certified by Interior Health – we do ask to see the Interior Health certificate prior to agreeing to purchase products
- organic certification paperwork for any products categorized as organic
- meat suppliers must complete a statement of farm practices that will be reviewed prior to agreeing to purchase products
- have guaranteed production + distribution that can meet our volume of sale
We favour local suppliers so it’s always worth applying because we will work with you directly on getting your product into store.
Does my product have to be organic?
If you are a farmer growing fruit, vegetables or flowers, our produce department is 100% certified organic. If you are hoping to sell in our produce department you will need to be certified organic.
All other departments will accept non-organic products, but we do have some buying guidelines that we use when bringing in new products.
What are the buying guidelines for the Co-op?
We have a set of whole store guidelines that we consider when bringing in new products. Mostly that we favour local (that’s you!) and organic products that are sustainably sourced and humanely raised. There are no products with artificial colours or preservatives in the store and we look for products with non-gmo sugars and oils.
Each department has specific buying guidelines – for example if you are hoping to sell meat in our Butcher Shop you will be asked to supply a Statement of Farm Practices. You can learn more about our buying guidelines here.
What do I need to have on my product to sell at the Co-op?
In order for your product to be shelf-ready you will need most, or all, of the following. Each department is a little bit unique – for example if you are an organic farmer, you obviously don’t need a barcode or nutritional labels. We always encourage you to reach out and chat with us directly, but here is a list of common requirements:
- registered barcode with UPC
- your ingredients clearly labelled
- have your address + contact info on your labels
- tamper proof sealing on wellness + grocery products
How Will the Co-op Pay Me?
We run on a net-30 payment system so you will receive a cheque from us within 30 days of submitting your invoice.
What happens after I submit the contact form?
We receive your contact form and pass it along to the relevant department manager. They will reach out and contact you directly within a week of receiving your form. If you don’t hear anything within a week – please reach out to Amanda at marketing@kootenay.coop to follow up.