Moscow Food Co-op seeking expansion into Pullman

Whitman County residents may soon have easier access to organic and bulk food products.

The Moscow Food Co-op, which has operated in Moscow for since 1973, is looking to expand into Pullman.

A public forum about the growth of the Co-op was sponsored at the Bell Tower in Pullman Nov. 8. Pullman Chamber of Commerce Director Marie Dymkoski said the idea of a co-op in Pullman was met with excitement.

“Everybody that was there was very much behind it,” she said.

Dymkoski said recent growth in Pullman makes this a good time for the co-op to expand across the border. She added that the expansion would benefit all of Whitman County.

“I believe so, absolutely,” she said. “I think it can only be a good thing. I can only see it as an asset.”

Moscow Food Co-op General Manager Melinda Schab said she wants to be able to provide for residents in Whitman County.

“They have supported us when they live outside of Latah County,” she said. “Wouldn't it be nice if we existed in a place that is close to home for them?”

Schab said she is hoping to see a food co-op in Pullman within two years. A location has not been established yet.

“The majority really wanted to have to have it somewhere close to downtown,” Dymkoski said.

Dymkoski said Schab told those in attendance at the meeting that more than $2 million in sales each year at the Moscow Food Co-op has been attributed to Whitman County zip codes.

“They're ready to make that investment here,” Dymkoski said.

Schab told the Gazette that 25 percent of the sales yearly are attributed to Pullman customers, more than one percent to Palouse and one percent to Colfax. In total, Whitman County customers make up 25-30 percent of the sales.

Schab said the idea is still in its early phases.

“Right now we are in the property search phase,” she said. “We are committed to exploring this and making it happen if it is at all feasible.”