Hear about our co-op’s impact so far in 2026

Dear PCC member-owner,

Spring has arrived in the Pacific Northwest, and with it the first wave of fresh organic produce in our stores—gorgeous green leeks and purple sprouting broccoli—a welcome reflection of what our co-op makes possible. The choices you make when you shop at PCC support an entire network of farmers, farmworkers, natural and organic food distribution channels, community food donations, and our staff members.

This spring also comes at a time when many things feel uncertain. Ongoing global conflicts, rising food and fuel costs, and the evolving job market are affecting local households and communities in very real ways. Against that backdrop, the steadiness of the co-op matters.

One of the things I continue to appreciate about PCC is how everyday choices can lead to meaningful impact when made by many people together. Over the past year, we saw that play out in ways that were both simple and significant — not as headlines, but as examples of how PCC staff, members, and shoppers continue to show up for one another and for our broader community.

Through our partnership with Cards by Lodie, members and shoppers helped raise more than $100,000 in support of the Center for Whale Research on San Juan Island, contributing to ongoing efforts to protect the critically endangered orcas in our region. It’s a purchase that connects directly to impact far beyond our stores.

That same sense of care showed up through a pilot recycling effort at several neighborhood locations. Together, we diverted hundreds of pounds of hard‑to‑recycle plastics from landfills. Because participation has been strong, drop‑off bins remain available at select stores as we look at how this effort might grow over time.

PCC staff and members showed up again in Olympia alongside nearly 200 fellow advocates for Hunger Action Day. They met with state legislators to elevate community voices, advance equitable food access, and push for systemic solutions to end hunger across Washington.

We’ve continued to reflect and uplift the communities we serve through our Inclusive Trade Program and seasonal highlights like Black History Month and Women’s History Month. Supporting businesses owned by Black and women entrepreneurs is one of the ways we aim to make sure our sourcing and shelves remain inclusive throughout the year.

It was an honor that PCC was recognized as Best Organic Retailer at Natural Products Expo West. That recognition belongs to our staff, partners, members, and shoppers alike, and to the farmers, farm workers, and advocates who have helped shape the organic movement over many years. It’s another reminder that consistency, care, and shared values add up.

Looking ahead, our annual Board of Trustees election is now live. The board represents the voices of our PCC community, and participating is one of the most direct ways members can help shape the co-op’s future. I encourage you to review the 2026 Election Guide and make your voice heard by voting.

We’re also in the late stages of bargaining our next contract with our union partner, UFCW Local 3000. As always, we’re approaching this work with respect for the voices of our union-represented staff and a shared focus on making progress toward a fair and equitable contract.

Before closing, I want to share how much I’ve appreciated the support of our staff, leadership team, and Board while stepping into the Acting CEO role during Krish’s leave. As Krish returns this month, I’m glad to welcome him back to the co-op and continue our work together.

With appreciation,

Amy Chow

CFO, and Acting CEO