Watch Out Boise Co-op, Here Comes Whole Foods

If I had some graphic design software (and skills), I'd create an illustration of Whole Foods crushing the Boise Co-op like a bulldozer, because that's what is about to happen. It's not too far away, about a year and half I believe, and Whole Foods will FINALLY be in Boise and give the Co-op a little competition. Currently, the Co-op is one of the only places to buy organic, natural foods, cleaners, etc. Other grocery stores have some organic and/or natural items but the Co-op definitely has the selection.

Shopping exclusively at the Co-op for these types of products wouldn't be a problem but ...

1) Customer service isn't a priority at the Co-op and this is evident on a consistent basis by those who work at the Co-op. The Co-op has some of the crankiest, snobbiest workers on the planet. I used to say it was just part of being a hippy but that's not true. There are lots of hippies that are nice people, and that have expressed displeasure in shopping at the Co-op I might add.

2) The Co-op is expensive. That's generally the case with organic versus commercially grown products but the Co-ops prices are ridiculous. Once a month they send a 10% coupon to their members which is generally when I'll go and buy everything I'd need from the Co-op for that month to help save some dollars. This helps a little bit but it doesn't make up for the price difference between the C0-op and a store like Whole Foods.

3) Parking is weak. It's a good thing the clientele is laid back because I would imagine other lots like the Co-op's have a lot more fights. It's small and always packed. There's generally a line going out to the streets of cars, starting your shopping trip off right. The lot in which Whole Foods will be located is huge. I imagine it to include a nicely sized parking lot, perfect for vehicles larger than a Vespa.

Yes it sucks because the Co-op is local, and it's nice to support local business, but after years of being mistreated by the Co-op, I can't wait for Whole Foods to arrive to Boise. I think many in Boise feel the same way. Boise is a great city with many local businesses that do well. The people in this city like to support local business but it appears the Co-op's hour glass is running out of sand!

Until next time, keep your head up and your stick on the ice!