Local Grocery that GREW with Twin Cities Co-op Partners

Co-op Partners Warehouse (CPW) is a wholesale distributor of organic produce, dairy, and unique local grocery products. CPW works with first-time producers to make their products successful by giving feedback on packaging and pricing, as well as creating wholesale monthly specials, and assisting with marketing materials. By working with CPW, small companies expand their reach to a seven-state distribution area and increase their visibility to co-ops and natural foods stores.

Here, the founders and owners of these thriving products talk about their past, present and future.

You Betcha Kim Chi

“We started You Betcha Kimchi in a very fragrant Whittier apartment. It’s a Minnesota twist on a Korean classic with 100% locally-grown, organic vegetables directly sourced from local farmers. Even the ginger is local, which provides You Betcha Kim Chi with that signature zing.

In 2015, Linden Hills Co-op was the first local co-op to carry our product, and the Wedge picked it up shortly after. In 2017, we started distributing our product through Co-op Partners Warehouse. CPW helped us expand our reach, gain access to more co-ops and restaurants, and increase our sales.

Pick up a pint of Minnesota Nice, A Bit Nippy or Uffda! at both the Wedge and Linden Hills today!”

Big Watt Coffee

“Big Watt started humbly in the basement of the original Five Watt Coffee shop in South Minneapolis, with the goal of taking simple and tasty cold press into the world without compromising the quality of ingredients and unparalleled flavor.

That long—and sometimes difficult—journey brought us to today: three unique canned Cold Press Coffees (with more on the way) distributed to 18 states and growing.

Co-op Partners Warehouse was our first real distribution partner, and their devotion to genuine products and retailers and customers who care about what they’re drinking made it a perfect partnership to ‘do good work’.”

Deane’s Kombucha

“My family moved to the Linden Hills neighborhood in 2004 and became co-op members shortly thereafter. I began home-brewing kombucha in 2006 and after many compliments from friends decided to make a business of it.

Linden Hills Co-op was my very first account, and after years of my children watching me home-brew and dream of starting a business, it was a real treat to take the kids to the co-op and see Deane’s Kombucha on the shelf for the first time.

Today our top stores include Linden Hills Co-op, the Wedge and The Wedge Table. Co-op Partners Warehouse is my primary distributor. Over the past four years, my relationship with these businesses has grown; improving the stores, operations, participating in community outreach and supporting local business. This relationship has been instrumental in my success and growth.”

Cosmic Cacao Bars

“Cosmic Cacao was founded in Minneapolis in May of 2018. My journey began with a serious love for the cacao plant and has resulted in a whole new life. I believed so strongly in the dream of creating a bar that is seriously indulgent and good for your body. I took a massive leap, left my career and jumped head first into what I knew was my highest calling. I am truly in awe at how this dream has become my reality.

This would not have been possible without the love and support of the local co-op community. Much gratitude to all the co-ops who have supported me and to Co-op Partners Warehouse who believed in this product enough to bring it to their distribution center.

Most importantly, a heartfelt thank you to the people who have purchased my bar, understanding the value of a product made by hand, not a machine. I will continue to pour my gratitude and love into these bars as long as you’ll have me.”

Find Cosmic Cocao bars in our refrigerated grab & go section.

photos supplied by vendors