Demeter (she/her), a Produce Replenishment Buyer and Shift Lead, has worked at Seward Co-op’s Friendship store for much of the COVID-19 pandemic. In her role, she has experienced the ups and downs of navigating stocking a department when supply chain issues pose challenges. Despite those challenges, working at the co-op with people she cares about, in a community she’s invested in, creates opportunities for connection. 

Demi was hired in Aug. 2020, a time when many of us were still adapting to pandemic life. Her previous experience of working at a co-op in Wisconsin led her to seek the “true co-op community” feel in Minneapolis, and she found it at Seward Co-op. She says being a part of a workplace where she can connect with coworkers and community members is very important to her. Demeter was aware of the co-op’s long history here in Minneapolis and was drawn to a union workplace.

She says her produce buying role gives her many opportunities to grow and explore her interests. She stresses that being part of the produce team allows for creativity and independence. Encouragement and trust from co-op management provides Demi a lot of autonomy in her role, and she’s been allowed to bloom like the bright flowers nearby in the produce coolers.

Demi works with her co-buyer to ensure the shelves are as stocked as possible. They collaborate to seek out the highest quality produce from reliable vendors. Over the time she’s been at Seward Co-op, Demi helped increase the quantity and display size of flowers and plants at the Friendship store. The high level of communication and trust in the Friendship produce department meant that navigating the pandemic, although difficult, was smoother because of teamwork. She’s grateful for the wonderful, understanding folks who shop at the co-op. She says shopper feedback has been positive and many people recognize that the pandemic impacts product shortages at the store.

Overall, Demeter finds much fulfillment in the produce department. Working with organic, local produce, interacting with farmers, delivery drivers, and customers builds community. Knowing where our food comes from makes that community even stronger.