Thirty years ago, Tidal Creek Cooperative began as an idea. A group of people routinely got together at the city salvage/dump to reclaim recyclables from being put into a landfill. It was this group trying to reduce waste and support the environment that had an idea. They wanted better food for themselves and their families. From that idea, Tidal Creek was formed, and in July 2012 we will celebrate 30 wonderful years of serving Wilmington.

Much has changed as Wilmington and Tidal Creek have grown together. This year, Wilmington will see the arrival of Whole Foods Market. Realistically, your Co-op is going to be challenged by this large chain’s arrival in our city. This corporation threatens our much smaller organization and we hope that our owners will continue to value what has made us a part of their lives for 30 years. We are a 100% locally run business. All decisions are made here with consideration given to our owners and employees. We give back to our owners with patronage dividends based on their purchases for the previous year. We give back to our community with grants, donations and non-monetary support. We have owners—3000 owners who have made us what we are today.

To ensure our strongest possible tomorrow, I ask you to shop local and support our community-based, not-for-profit business. I also ask for your input. Just like those original Co-op founders, you have great ideas, too. We welcome your ideas, questions and suggestions as we face this challenge. With your involvement, we can adapt and become even stronger in the face of this competition. In return, I can promise you that your Co-op staff members will be using this competition as an opportunity to strengthen the best parts of our cooperative and to bring you unparalleled service, selection and commitment to our community. Thank you for all you have done to make Tidal Creek what it is today.

Craig Harris, General Manager