About Us

The Food Shed Co-op is a full-service grocery store in Woodstock, Illinois, built by nearly 3,000 local owners who believe our community deserves better food choices and a stronger, more resilient food system.

Our modern global food system has accomplished something extraordinary. It provides an incredible variety of affordable food with remarkable efficiency. But we also believe healthy communities benefit from something more—a vibrant local food system that supports nearby farmers, shortens supply chains, strengthens the local economy, and gives people a greater connection to where their food comes from.

That’s why the Food Shed Co-op exists.

Our story began in 2014, when a group of McHenry County residents came together around a simple idea: our community should have a grocery store owned by the people who shop there, not distant shareholders. After a decade of planning, fundraising, and thousands of volunteer hours, we proudly opened our doors in May 2024.

Today, anyone can shop at the Food Shed Co-op—ownership is not required.

But for a one-time investment of $200 per household, everyone living in your household can become an owner. Owners enjoy exclusive savings, including weekly Owner’s Basket specials and 10% off one entire shopping trip each month, along with a voice in the future of the co-op through democratic elections.

Unlike conventional grocery chains, our success isn’t measured only by quarterly profits. It’s measured by stronger local farms, cleaner ingredient labels, healthier food choices, thriving local businesses, and a community that has greater ownership of its food future.

Every purchase helps support local farmers and producers, keeps more food dollars circulating close to home, and strengthens a regional food system that complements—not replaces—the global one.

The Food Shed Co-op is more than a grocery store. It’s a community investment in healthier people, a stronger local economy, and a more resilient food system for generations to come.

Become an Owner Now!