annual report & election issue 2019
Have Lunch With Us
Following suit of Cedar Rapids, we've added new hot tables and salad bars in both our Iowa City and Coralville stores! Now open daily.
2019 annual report published by: NEW PIONEER FOOD CO-OP 22 S. Van Buren St. • Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 338-9441 open daily 7am–10pm 1101 2nd St. • Coralville, IA 52241 (319) 358-5513 open daily 8am–9pm 3338 Center Point Rd. NE • Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 (319) 365-2632 open daily 8am–9pm STORE SUPPORT OFFICE 22 S. Linn St., Unit 2A • Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 248-6400 open Mon.–Fri. 8am–5pm
www.newpi.coop EDITOR Amy Hospodarsky DESIGN JoJo Baccam & Melanie Roling PRINTER Royle Printing, Sun Prairie, WI
TABLE OF CONTENTS p. 4 p. 6 p. 7 p. 9 p. 18
Letter from the General Manager Letter from the Board President Your Co-op by the Numbers Candidate Statements & Ballot Financials
Upcoming Events Everyone is welcome to attend! Member-Owner Meet & Greet September 21, 2019
2-4pm, New Pi Coralville 1101 2nd St., Coralville, IA 52241
October Open Board Meeting October 27, 2019
2-4pm, New Pi Coralville 1101 2nd St., Coralville, IA 52241 Details on page 19
Owners are welcome to share their views with the New Pi Board:
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(year indicates when term expires) President CAITLIN SLESSOR (2021) (319) 389-6431, caitlin@newpi.coop
Vice President JON FOGARTY (2019) (319) 400-4911, jon@newpi.coop
Secretary KELLI KENNON-LANE (2019) (319) 361-2843, kelli@newpi.coop
Treasurer CALVIN NORRIS (2020) (319) 355-2603, cal@newpi.coop
PATRICK BRICKEL (2020) patrick@newpi.coop
WANNETTE DOERRFELD (2020) (319) 651-3873, wannette@s2pstudio.com
RAMJI BALAKRISHNAN (2021) (319) 800-9046, ramji@newpi.coop
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NEW PIONEER FOOD CO-OP ENDS STATEMENT A sustainable and forward-thinking local food marketplace, defined by: Shared economics, community enrichment, and partnerships in the Corridor Widespread and diverse participation Identifying and meeting the needs of owners and future owners
Sobaski Family Farms WA S H I N G TO N ,
I OWA
High quality, all natural, Iowa pork.
“In 2012 we made a decision to start raising our own pork so that we knew what our family was eating. Our mission is to raise the best quality pork for our family and yours.”
run, space to f o y t n le s have p ange pig . -r e e fr s i' d Sobask ot aroun s, and ro dig hole
“Sobaski pork is a premium local product that we are proud to offer.” – CRAIG ALBRIGHT, NEW PI MEAT & SEAFOOD COORDINATOR
Sobaski Family Farms is a family owned and operated hog farm in Washington, IA. Aaron Sobaski and his family started their own operation after Aaron had spent some time working on a more traditional confinement-based pig farm. That experience left him changed and has impacted the way he runs his farm and the way he lives his life. "I was sick all the time," he recalls, "and I wasn’t happy." In 2012, Sobaski Family Farms was created to raise all natural, free range, locally raised hogs. "I decided I was going to raise pigs my way – and I would never go back. It truly bothers me to drive past hog confinements that do not allow the pigs to have access to do what a pig wants and is supposed to do."
Our relationship with Sobaski Family Farms allows us to offer some of the freshest, highest quality pork in Eastern Iowa. They provide us with whole hogs that our meat department uses for our hand cut pork offerings. annual report 2019 • www.newpi.coop
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New Day, New Pi M AT T
H A RT Z ,
N E W
P I
G E N E R A L
M A N AG E R
Over the last year, New Pi has reinvested and reinvented. We are excited about pressing forward and finding new and innovative ways to provide local, natural, and organic food both in our stores and beyond. Staying relevant is a critical piece in continuing to live out our mission and values day-to-day and in the future. Brick and Mortar Over the past few months, we have embarked on renovations of both our Johnson County locations. This investment not only made our space more bright, inviting, and functional, but has also allowed us to better serve the needs and demands of our owners and shoppers. Introduction of a hot and cold bar in both locations has helped us accommodate requests for additional hot food options and follow a general consumer trend toward buying more prepared foods.
Co-op Cart Shoppers’ preference on how to access retailers has drastically shifted. We are thrilled to announce that this fall we'll be launching Co-op Cart, our online shopping platform. You will soon be able to order all your favorite New Pi staples, produce, meat, and pantry items just by the click of your mouse. Our personal shoppers will fulfill your order, and you can pick it up at your desired New Pi location.
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new pioneer food co-op’s newsletter
Matt Hartz
Serving Our Neighbors We believe that everyone should have access to locally sourced and naturally produced food. We recognize that there can be barriers to that happening, especially for our most vulnerable neighbors. In recent years, we have implemented our Change for Change program, which allows our shoppers to round up their change at the register to make an impact in our communities through non-profits that focus on food security and fresh food access. In 2019 alone, that program has reinvested $22,321.55 directly back into our communities. We are also matching SNAP benefits spent on fruits and vegetables dollar-for-dollar through the state Double Up Food Bucks program. One new initiative that we will be implementing this fall will be a 10% food access discount for any member who also qualifies for SNAP benefits. We are excited to continue to serve all our community and do our part in increasing food access. In conclusion, I want to say thank you. Thank you for continuing to invest in New Pi’s mission and vision. Thank you for believing that change can be made through thoughtful purchasing decisions. We will grow and evolve to continue to serve the needs of our members and provide a market for local, natural, and organic foods, and we look forward to serving you in the coming year and beyond.
Matt Hartz New Pi General Manager
annual report 2019 • www.newpi.coop
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Moving Forward S L E S S O R ,
N E W
P I
B OA R D
P R E S I D E N T so
r
C A IT L I N
le Caitlin S
New look, new day, new benefits
I
came to you last year and asked for your support as we move New Pi forward in a changing marketplace. It is with much excitement that I now write you with many of those changes either in process or on the immediate horizon. For our shoppers in Iowa City and Coralville, you have patiently stayed with us as we remodeled both stores at the same time. You are now enjoying the Iowa City hot table selections and helping yourselves to the abundant Coralville salad bar. You may also notice the more open format of the stores and some fresh paint on the walls.
Self-Service Meat You may be adjusting to the consolidation of meat cutting to Coralville. You are such a thoughtful group that you had many great questions about how the change in meat packaging at the self-service meat case in Iowa City impacts the environment.
The use of more plastic was a concern, but this process allows meat to keep longer, inhibits the growth of pathogens, prevents leaks, and overall has allowed us to lower our carbon footprint by greatly reducing food waste. As we work to make the Johnson County stores fully operational with their new amenities, you may notice and have suggestions for how we can do things better. Please keep the suggestions coming. We look at all of them.
New Member Benefits Our next initiative is to ramp up our member benefits. The Board spent time this past year evaluating what we can provide you for your continued loyalty. Over the coming months, you’ll see that in addition to our 10% off supplements and body care on the first Tuesday of each month and the 5% off New Pi supplements each day, several new programs will be added.
Get excited about: Member appreciation days twice annually – 10% off one visit during a three-day period (no exclusions) Daily 10% food access discount for members who qualify for food assistance programs. No curbside pickup fee for orders over $75 (yes, this means we have online shopping coming soon – stay tuned! Weekly emailed coupon 10% off bulk grains, rice, and legumes every day Rewards program for designated frequent purchase items like bagged salad mixes, coffee, on-tap drinks, and more! Think of your buy 10 get one free punch card, but no paper needed! I love New Pioneer. I know you do too. Thank you for your support during a year of exciting changes.
Caitlin Slessor New Pi Board President 6
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YOUR COOP BY THE NUMBERS Driven by the seven Co-op Principles including #7 – Concern for Community: together, we can make our little corner of the world better!
1,230,000
plastic bags were saved from circulation since 2015
35,863
Co-op owners
658
$2,436,397.95 in purchases from local producers
welcomed in the past year
INFOGRAPHIC: CO-OP BY THE NUMBERS (PULL FROM WEBSITE)
In 2019, our Change for Change program really boomed! Thanks to our generous shoppers, we’ve raised:
$22,321.55
in Change for Change and donated to
19
local organizations
98,020 of food waste & compostable dinnerware diverted from landfill
130+
local farmers & producers sell through New Pi
79,000 of food donated to Table to Table
Double Up Food Bucks For every $1 a person spends on any fresh fruits and vegetables with their SNAP EBT card at New Pi, they will earn a matching $1 in Double Up Food Bucks, which can be used to buy locally-grown produce!
New Pi issued
82%
of all produce was sold organically
$3,902
in DUFB to 667 customers for use whenever they need
556 customers redeemed
$2,703.50 in DUFB at the Co-op
2019 VOTING PROCEDURE the ballot You must hold a New Pioneer Food Co-op owner share in your own name to participate in voting. • Only the shareholder (owner) may vote. Spouses and household members without their own shares are not eligible. The shareholder is the name on the mailing address of this publication. You may also inquire at a store register, call (319) 248-6400, or email ownership@newpi.coop to determine the name in which the owner share is held and confirm your owner number. • To vote in the 2019 New Pi Board elections, you must have been an owner as of September 13, 2018. • Read the candidates’ comments ( pages 11–15) and select up to three. • Fill in your selections on the ballot, page 9, with a blue or black pen or #2 pencil.
m ak e sur e we c an co unt yo ur ballot • Be certain to fill out your ballot completely by signing your name. • Print your name (your Co-op ownership must be under this name). ) and fold on designated lines. If mailing, • Cut the ballot as shown ( please tape at the sides (very important—DO NOT tape at bottom, the post office needs this free of tape).
vote online ! New this year! See ballot to the right for instructions. If you prefer to vote electronically in future elections, check the box at the bottom of the page and include your email.
m ail promptly • Mailed ballots must arrive at the accountant’s office by October 24, 2019, to be counted. • You may vote online through October 24, 2019.
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Ballot N E W PI O N E E R B O D 2 0 1 9 E L E C T I O N Voting Instructions
Voting by Mail: • • •
Mark your selections by filling in the box next to the candidate of your choice. You must fill in the box completely with a #2 pencil or blue or black pen. Do not mail to New Pioneer Food Cooperative. Place ballot in the enclosed return envelope. Mail to Survey & Ballot Systems, 7653 Anagram Drive, Eden Prairie, MN 55344. Envelopes must be received no later than October 24, 2019. Please allow sufficient time for delivery.
Voting Online: • • • • •
Go to directvote.net/NPFC/ to access the login page of the official 2019 New Pioneer Co-op election. Use your your Member Number and your 5 digit zip code on file to login. Once logged in, follow the online voting instructions. Online voting begins September 10, 2019 and ends at 11:59 PM Central, October 24, 2019. Do not mail this ballot if you plan to vote online.
If you have any problems voting online, please email support@directvote.net. MARKING INSTRUCTIONS EXAMPLE g
New Pioneer Board of Directors Open Seats This election fills three Board seats for a three year term. You may vote for up to 3 candidates.
c c c c c c
Jon Fogarty Kelli Kennon-Lane Jennifer Murphy Julie Parisi Anna Wolle ____________________________ (write-in if other than above)
Sign your name
c If you prefer to vote electronically in future elections, please check the box to the left. Email
Ballots Due
By mail: Oct. 24, 2019 Online: Oct. 24, 2019 at 11:59 PM Central
Ballot will be opened and viewed by Survey & Ballot Systems personnel only. Results will be announced at the conclusion of the October Open Board Meeting to be held on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. Meeting details on page 19. annual report 2019 • www.newpi.coop
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board candidate
Jon Fogarty
Occupation:
Purchasing Programs Specialist, National Co+op Grocers
Education:
BA in Religious Studies, Certificate of Entrepreneurship, University of Iowa; MBA, Hawaii Pacific University
What's your favorite Co-op product?
Organic Valley grassmilk or regular European-style cultured butter, Alter Eco truffles, and any chocolate made by Theo!
Q: Please summarize the aspects of your work experience you feel would be helpful to the New Pioneer Board and New Pioneer Food Co-op. I got into this business in the mid 1990's when I was part owner of a clothing shop that specialized in hemp and organic cotton clothing. I was motivated to use commerce as a force for positive change in society. My interests turned to food. Now, some years later, I've spent two years as an apprentice on a local certified organic farm, spent over a decade working for cooperatives, and worked with a variety of NGO's around the county advocating for strong organic standards and strong family farms.
Q: As a Board member, how would you guide the Co-op in fulfilling the values reflected in its mission statement? The demand for organic foods is growing and that's a great thing for consumers and producers alike. The problem is that others recognize this growing market and are taking it from us. If we are going to fulfill our mission of setting the community standard for employees or foster more domestic producers by growing the market for organic products, we need to be fighting for the lead in the market. If we, as a business and community, sit content with middle of the pack or less, we are going to subject to the standard instead of setting the standard.
Q: Have you served on a board of directors before? If so, please describe the organization and your role. I have served on New Pi’s board for six years, serving as Vice President and secretary. During graduate school, I served on the board for Kokua Market, a food co-op in Honolulu. For six years at NCG I filled the role of board admin.
Q: What do you feel are New Pioneer’s primary challenges, and how could you help meet these challenges? New Pi operates in a competitive environment that really didn’t exist 10 years ago. The products that we have carried for years and the brands that we have helped build can now be found in many other retail stores in the area. Gone are the good old days when we had big margins and endless profits. When New Pi was the only game in town for organic foods, we didn’t have to earn people’s business. We now have to earn every customer’s business by being a better retailer, focusing on customer service, product selection and value, and increasing our work with local/regional producers. Taking the approach that we will just do what we have always done is both easy and destined to fail. As a business, we will need to embrace change and that will be difficult but necessary.
Q: In your opinion, what is the role of the Board of Directors in the operation of New Pioneer Food Co-op? The role of the board is to supervise, advise, and direct the general manger on matters of strategy affecting the business. A competent board does not get involved in operations unless absolutely necessary. The only time the board should get involved in operations is in the case of potential fiscal or legal jeopardy. In addition, a responsible board member protects the interests and responds to the needs of the owners.
there because it was the one place in town that had RBGh-free milk. So I started shopping there for products in dairy. Over the course of two years, I had begun reading labels, trying new products, and was shopping exclusively at New Pi. My diet today is largely organic, far more healthy, and definitely more thoughtful than it was before I started shopping at New Pi. It was a fundamental and profound change in my early adult years that has shaped me to this day. I want to see that change happen again and again for others. Whatever you love about the Co-op, whatever motivates you to shop here, more New Pi means more of what you love about it for more and more people. It means more sales for local farmers and ranchers, more jobs in the community, and a greater force for positive change. I see New Pi as the wonderful combination of market forces and better human behavior all wrapped up in a nice, neat bag of groceries.
Q: In your opinion, what is the role of the Co-op in the community? The Co-op is many things to many people. Everyone I know from New Pi loves New Pi in their own way. For me, I started shopping annual report 2019 • www.newpi.coop
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board candidate
Kelli Kennon-Lane
Occupation:
Director of Education at Indian Creek Nature Center, sustainable living blogger
Education:
AA in Communications Media/Public Relations; BA in Journalism Education; MA in Secondary Education; registered yoga teacher
What's your favorite Co-op product?
My favorite Co-op product is the Jalapeno Cashew Spread. I slather it on a piece of toasted New Pi Farmhouse bread with sliced avocado. The house-made Caesar dressing is also amazing. When I am shopping I usually leave with a fresh cinnamon roll to eat on my drive home and hide the evidence.
Q: Please summarize the aspects of your work experience you feel would be helpful to the New Pioneer Board and New Pioneer Food Co-op. Before serving as Director of Education at Indian Creek Nature Center, I worked for ten years in public education. The ability to moderate crucial conversations and use coaching language to guide decision-making are transferable skills that I will continue to use to serve the New Pioneer Board. I am a candid communicator with the ability to use both vision and tactical strategy to achieve goals. As a sustainable living blogger I am well connected with local food producers, artisans, brands, and businesses that support sustainable living and eco-conscious initiatives. I am also a confident and comfortable public speaker. It is important for board members to be visible and approachable to member-owners and in the community. Each board member is an ambassador of the Co-op, something I would continue to do with pride if re-elected. Q: Have you served on a board of directors before? If so, please describe the organization and your role. I am finishing my first three-year term on the New Pioneer Board of Directors where I’ve served as secretary for two years, chaired the governance committee, and chaired and served on the Member-Owner Relations Committee. Other leadership capacities in which I’ve been involved include: member of the Food Environment Alliance, 2019 Solarize Linn County partner, 2019 Eco-Fest Eco Champ, City of Marion Blue Zones Community Policy board member, supporting the development of a successful Urban Agriculture and Backyard Chicken ordinance in Marion several years ago, and serving in numerous leadership roles in Eastern Iowa schools.
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Q: In your opinion, what is the role of the Board of Directors in the operation of New Pioneer Food Co-op? The role of the Board of Directors is to lead our Co-op in a direction that best serves the members and community through long-term planning and policy development. What’s most important now is navigating and responding to the challenging grocery market in our area. Leading, encouraging, and supporting management and staff to be innovative, yet grounded in reality is essential. Without a doubt, protecting the fiscal security of the Co-op with forward thinking decision-making is the board’s primary responsibility at this time. Having both is possible with thoughtful, strategic decisions by the Board of Directors! Q: As a Board member, how would you guide the Co-op in fulfilling the values reflected in its mission statement? My skill set would be best used in the mission statement values of stimulating local agriculture, the production of natural foods, and emphasizing product information and education. These three areas are interdependent and would further secure the fiscal well-being of our Co-op with the use of strategic marketing and continued community engagement. Personally, I am proud to be a member-owner of an organization that values the health, welfare, and happiness of its employees. In our mission we state that we “strive to set a community standard for the best possible working conditions, training, wages, benefits, and opportunities for advancement for its employees.” When faced with decisions at the Board level, I will continue to keep these values at the core of my decisions, while still balancing the fiscal security of the organization. Q: What do you feel are New Pioneer’s primary challenges and how could you help meet these challenges? The challenging grocery market — increased competition and options for consumers of
natural foods, e-commerce and online shopping, and the popularity of inexpensive, low quality “food products” — is the Co-op's primary challenge. Addressing this challenge requires the Board of Directors to undergo a paradigm shift and support management and staff in this shift as well. The Co-op has the benefit of a rich history from which we can grow. We know what works for our organization! We also have the opportunity to take calculated risks in order to grow sales while simultaneously meeting the ever-changing needs of the community. My attention to detail, adherence to deadlines and budget, interpersonal skills, and no-nonsense approach to accountability will be assets to the Board of Directors at this crucial time. Q: In your opinion, what is the role of the Coop in the community? Our Co-op is more than a grocery store; it’s a hub of the community for health and wellness using food as the catalyst. New Pioneer is common ground for good food, collaboration, and learning. Looking for proof? Walk the aisles in any of the three stores. Member-owner or not, one will see New Pi’s strict product policy in action as well as a commitment to the environment with their zero waste principles. One will see the Cedar Rapids store dining area packed over the lunch hour with families dining together and business meetings happening simultaneously. One will hear employees answering questions and providing insights and information about any item on the shelves. On any given day or evening, one might witness a store tour for a professional group or drop in on a cooking or nutrition class. Our Co-op is our place. It’s our collective hub where we all belong, connected by food.
board candidate
Jennifer Murphy
Occupation:
Leader Development Coach, Consultant, and Teacher
Education:
Doctor of Executive Leadership Student, University of Charleston
What's your favorite Co-op product? Anything locally grown or produced!
Q: Please summarize the aspects of your work experience you feel would be helpful to the New Pioneer Board and New Pioneer Food Co-op. I have been fortunate to have worked in many capacities in my career. I have worked as a military leader, corporate leader, entrepreneur, teacher, and more, which have given me a wealth of experience in leadership, decision making, and service to others. I am passionate about developing people and the processes that serve people and each of the roles I have held professionally have allowed me to develop those skills. Further, I have spent time as a logistician working within supply chains, a retail business owner, a coach, consultant and trainer, and volunteer within many service organizations. I take my role as a leader who serves very seriously and seek to find the right solutions to the challenges and opportunities presented for all concerned but am not afraid to make the tough decisions when needed. While I am a businesswoman and teacher, I am also a spiritual healer and earth steward who believes there is power in our decisions. This balance of practical and spiritual beliefs is key to the work I do as a leader and would drive how I operate as a board member. Q: Have you served on a board of directors before? If so, please describe the organization and your role. While this would be my first formal board membership, I have been fortunate to be part of strategic and tactical planning groups during my career. For example, I have served on executive committees for United Way and for Employee Networks in my former workplaces. As a United Way executive committee member at Alliant Energy, I organized fundraising and community support events making connections with members of the community and members of the organization
to participate, donate, and educate. As a Women's Employee Network committee member, I served as the communications chair responsible for regular newsletters, communication with the membership and supporting key events such as a collaboration with other networks for additional educational opportunities. Additionally, I worked on many cross functional and international teams as part of my career history and spent time as a liaison in a US Embassy where it was my job to work between governments to achieve mutually beneficial goals. Q: In your opinion, what is the role of the Board of Directors in the operation of New Pioneer Food Co-op? The role of the Board of Directors for New Pioneer Co-op is to represent the owners’ best interests with respect to what the owners need in order to feel the Co-op provides value in their lives. As a board member, I would see it as my job to connect the Co-op, co-op owners and community to create beneficial systems and relationships for all in alignment with the mission statement. Q: As a Board member, how would you guide the Co-op in fulfilling the values reflected in its mission statement? Guiding the Co-op through its mission statement and values is fundamental for its ability to continue to thrive. A big part of that is the leadership the board of directors provides. Part of the challenge of leadership is to make tough decisions, advise and make objective judgments, and to plan for future needs. These are part of my core beliefs and actions as a business owner, a member of humanity, and would be part of my work as a board member.
Q: What do you feel are New Pioneer’s primary challenges, and how could you help meet these challenges? New Pioneer's primary challenges reside in the concept of diversity and competition. We have multiple sources of competition for our attention through direct and indirect competition for the consumer. We need to be the trusted source for information and education on how to use our products to create or sustain a healthier lifestyle. We can be one of many voices, or we can be an ally in the journey of community building and healthy living. I would support outreach, classes and gatherings to bring a sense of community to the organization. Q: In your opinion, what is the role of the Co-op in the community? I perceive the role of the Co-op in the community is to create a meeting place for healthy living, a source for local and sustainably generated products, and to educate seekers of health on their options. It should be a place where people can meet, eat, socialize and trust the items they get there to be good for them and good value on all levels.
annual report 2019 • www.newpi.coop
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board candidate
Julie Parisi
Occupation:
Director of Market Operations and Business Development at NewBo City Market; Owner, Operator - Zaza’s Pastas, LLC
Education:
B.A. University of Iowa, 2006 in Political Science and Italian Studies
What's your favorite Co-op product?
Spanakopita, New Pi Zano bread, sake roasted salmon, allll the soups. I will tell you, however, my absolute favorite thing about the Co-op is not a product, but rather, seeing the faces of all the hard-working local people who grow gorgeous fruits and vegetables hanging above the produce displays.
Q: Please summarize the aspects of your work experience you feel would be helpful to the New Pioneer Board and New Pioneer Food Co-op. Having run a small business for over 10 years, I know the importance of fiscal responsibility and strategic planning. As a local food producer, I’ve learned the importance of working in a competitive environment while staying true to your vision and knowing your value. I have a keen awareness of the impact of keeping dollars in the local economy and how that keeps our local communities thriving, innovating, and evolving. Through my work with NewBo City Market I have learned the importance of working with a small, yet productive, team and staying mission-driven in all we strive to achieve. I have taken part in strategic planning, goal alignment, and long-term vision planning. I’ve also helped organize a grassroots community group called Green Drinks Cedar Rapids. These monthly meetings feature presentations on local sustainability efforts from both a for profit and nonprofit organization. Q: Have you served on a board of directors before? If so, please describe the organization and your role. I served for two years on the Board of Directors for NewBo City Market before making the transition to working on staff. During that time I served as secretary on the executive committee and on the shopkeeper committee. I also currently serve on the business support committee for the Czech Village-New Bohemia Main Street organization.
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Q: In your opinion, what is the role of the Board of Directors in the operation of New Pioneer Food Co-op? The Board of Directors should focus on long-term strategic planning for the organization and ensure the company stays financially solvent. The Board should also have a hand in community outreach, acting as a liaison between the community and the Co-op. The Board should continually have an eye toward the future and growth of the Co-op and stay up-todate with competitive marketplace trends and innovate whenever possible. Q: As a Board member, how would you guide the Co-op in fulfilling the values reflected in its mission statement? As a Board member, it will be incredibly important to ensure that New Pi Co-op will continue to grow and be successful well into the future for the local, organic farmers getting their start today. I plan to help bolster the Co-op’s messaging in its unwavering support of local foods. Additionally, creating a strong financial basis from which we can continue to purchase local products first, supplementing with lower cost, higher margin items that may still be highly desired by Co-op members second. Q: What do you feel are New Pioneer’s primary challenges, and how could you help meet these challenges? The natural food landscape and values differentiation has become increasingly difficult in recent years. Most conventional groceries have now “jumped on the bandwagon.” People are also spending less time preparing their meals at home and prefer quick and easy solutions that still
check the box for natural, healthy food. We need to continue to innovate ways to get Co-op products into members’ hands quickly and with minimal effort on the consumer’s part. The Co-op has been blazing the trail in providing fresh, locally-sourced food to the community for decades. Where the Co-op differs is that we source so much food from hyper-local producers while competitors just promote either “natural” "organic” and/or regional foods. We need to do a better job of storytelling and setting ourselves apart by featuring local producers and growers. In my work at NewBo, I am constantly trying to promote the individuality of our shopkeepers and bring awareness to the community of what it means to be a small business owner. We’ve had events organized for shopkeepers to “meet and greet” the general public. I think it would be fun to help organize events like this for Co-op producers as well. Q: In your opinion, what is the role of the Co-op in the community? The Co-op exists to provide a place for local, natural, and organic products to find their way to consumers’ hands. Being a leader in the community, the Co-op helps to promote the importance of sustainable and diverse agriculture and products.
board candidate
Anna Lillian Wolle Occupation:
Customer Service Supervisor for New Pi CR, Suzuki Violin and Viola Instructor (Schultz Strings), professional folk violinist and singer/songwriter (founder of the former ‘Teranga Strings’ violin teaching initiative in Dakar, Senegal)
Education:
Bachelors of Arts in French and Visual Arts, St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN Semester abroad in Paris, France, Fall of 2016
What's your favorite Co-op product?
GT’s ‘Gingeraid’ and ‘Tantric Turmeric’ Kombucha
Q: Please summarize the aspects of your work experience you feel would be helpful to the New Pioneer Board and New Pioneer Food Co-op. A recent liberal arts education which involved a high level of critical thinking, working in a fast-paced environment for three years at St. Olaf College's career center as a peer career counselor, starting an arts “startup,” and the very humanist qualities of being a violin instructor to children ages 3+. While I am still a “young” professional, I have sought out a colorful array of opportunities in the US and abroad that have shaped me into a thoughtful listener, a fast-paced learner, a creative thinker, and an advocate for the Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities. Q: Have you served on a board of directors before? If so, please describe the organization and your role. No I have not. My dad has served on many boards in the community and I've learned from his experiences. Q:In your opinion, what is the role of the Board of Directors in the operation of New Pioneer Food Co-op? To creatively balance the interests of New Pi customers, food and product producers/ providers, the New Pi team, and ultimately, the “holistic health” of the Co-op as a business. The Co-op is so much more than making money for its team, however, it is important too for the board to realistically represent the Co-op's financial future when making decisions, considering the Co-op is incredibly mission-oriented.
traffic “people experience” to the table. Five out of the seven days of the week I am communicating with customers and learning about why they did or did not have a positive experience that day at New Pi. I believe that my first-hand, on-the-floor time would be a great and refreshing help to a board made up, primarily, of individuals who've experienced the Co-op as dedicated shoppers. Secondly, I recently planned for and launched a semi-for profit/semi-non-profit in West Africa, an endeavor from which I learned much about the glorious and not-so-glorious sides of creating a venture from the ground up. Thanks to extensive mentoring, I have experience in analyzing business plans and financial documents in a way that is generally positive and thoughtful. Finally as a creative young person, I believe that my ideas are representative of a motivated, large percentage of New Pi customers and potential owners. As a member of the board, I'd be a receptive, humble, active, and creative young board member.
Q: In your opinion, what is the role of the Co-op in the community? The Co-op serves as an inspiration for and hallmark of sustainability, mindful consumption, and the local economy in each community. The Co-op reflects to its customers, members, food providers, and a team a beautifully holistic vision of sustainability. It can also be called a “stomping ground” of local famers and creators, as the Co-op's collaboration with local businesses inspires the community to support local businesses through the consumption of high-quality products. I believe the Co-op also importantly raises awareness for local organizations, such as Feed Iowa First and CommUnity.
Q: What do you feel are New Pioneer’s primary challenges, and how could you help meet these challenges? I believe that New Pi's primary challenges are: continual growth, attracting new customers to become regular customers, and discerning which food sources are the best for the store. I would help guide decision making in meeting these challenges by, once again, sharing the overarching issues I see “on the floor” and reflecting on the customers I see when we make decisions. I would always put faces to decisions.
Q: As a Board member, how would you guide the Co-op in fulfilling the values reflected in its mission statement? First, as an employee of the Cedar Rapids New Pi location, I would bring my highannual report 2019 • www.newpi.coop
15
www.newpi.coop/thanksgiving
Because hosting your family is enough work...
Let us do the cooking. Thanksgiving Dinners available for six, ten, Ă la carte, and by the plate.
ONLINE ORDERING OPENS OCT. 16
Ferndale market Free-Range Turkey
Tast Diff e the eren ce!
"We keep the turkeys rotating onto fresh pasture. It's a true free-range program, outdoors from early spring." – John, Ferndale Market, Cannon Falls, MN
Whole turkeys featured in New Pi's Thanksgiving dinners & Meat Department.
A (Gourmet) Meal in 15 Minutes F It’s easy! - ’ . Cadence solves the “what’s for dinner” dilemma with prepared high-quality meals made with clean ingredients. That doesn’t mean the only options are microwave dinners, greasy takeout, expensive and time-consuming subscription boxes, or terrible frozen food filled with artificial ingredients. Every Cadence Kitchen plate is hand-crafted with the highest quality ingredients, each chosen at peak freshness. These dishes are healthy choices with no artificial preservatives, no fillers, no fixers, and no added chemicals! Their flavor is locked with their nitro flash-freezing technology. Unlike other freezing methods, nitrogen keeps food at its prime so you can enjoy a delicious, fresh meal in minutes–all you need to do is heat it on the stovetop. What a time saver! Bonus! Buying frozen bulk foods can help significantly reduce food waste and other environmental strains of food production, transportation, and storage. Stop in any of our three locations and give them a try!
Here’s how:
Their culinary team preps your meal with real food to hand-craft wholesome, gourmet meals.
They cool things down using nitrogen flash-freezing technology, bringing your meal down to -320º to lock in peak flavor, texture and freshness.
You stock your frozen pantry with delicious time-saving food from their diverse menu options.
You simply heat & serve! Put flavorful food on your table in minutes. annual report 2019 • www.newpi.coop
17
State of the Co-op N O R R IS ,
N E W
P I
B OA R D
T R E A SU R E R rr
is
C A LV I N
o Calvin N
N
ew pioneer continues to grapple with the headwinds of a very competitive market in Johnson County, and to a lesser extent, Linn County. This winter’s polar vortex and late arrival of traditional spring weather also had a significant impact on sales, and remodeling activities at our Iowa City and Coralville stores further suppressing sales in the last two months of the fiscal year. As a result, New Pi posted an overall Net Loss of $1,075,296 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019. This was $532,319 below our budgeted Net Loss of $542,977. Although this was a substantial underperformance relative to our projections, $800,151 of the Net Loss was due to depreciation expense, which is a non-cash charge against income. As a result, New Pioneer’s cash drain from operations for the year was significantly lower, and very manageable given New Pioneer’s existing cash reserves. As of June 30, 2019, New Pioneer’s overall long-term debt stood at $6,336,514, which was a decrease of $178,411 over June 30, 2018. Owner equity was $5,590,563 with total organizational assets of $13,165,884.
To this end, the organization has embarked on several projects to both generate additional sales, and improve operational efficiencies. One of the most apparent of these changes would have been the recent store remodels, changes to our meat departments, and tweaks to our mix of available products. In the very near future, we also intend to increase our digital presence, with the goal of better aligning ourselves with the types of technological capabilities consumers have come to expect from retailers in the modern age. We understand that changes like this can be difficult, and that some people would prefer we “keep things like they were.” However, as this last fiscal year illustrates, if we don’t change by adapting to the current environment, we will eventually cease to be a business. We firmly believe these new changes, along with our ongoing commitment to cooperative principles, will help to turn the tide for New Pioneer. We thank you, our owners, for your continued support and patience as we navigate this road to recovery. I look forward to updating you on our progress next year.
Over the last several years, New Pioneer has continued to make reactive adjustments to its operations to try to weather the on-going decline in store revenues. This, along with substantial efforts from our loyal and committed employees, has kept the organization solvent in the short-term. However, for New Pi to achieve long-term viability, it is clear we need to make significant changes to our business to meet the needs of our owners and adapt to the new paradigm we find ourselves in.
Calvin Norris New Pi Board Treasurer
2019*
2018
2017
Operating Activities Investing Activities Financing Activities
( 41,739) ($749,309) ($155,511)
311,564 ($304,527) ($145,168)
287,463 ($201,650) ($120,013)
Net Change in Cash & Cash Equivalents
($946,559)
($138,131)
($34,200)
C A S H
F L O W
$
$
$
*2019 numbers are preliminary and pre-audit
B A L A N C E
2019*
2018
2,019,919 $ 10,706,071 $ 439,894
3,201,685 $ 10,699,696 $ 817,462
S H E E T
Assets Current Assets Property & Equipment Other Assets
$
13,165,884
Total Assets
$
Liabilities & Equities Current Liabilities Long-Term Liabilities Total Liabilities
14,718,843
$
1,629,053 $ 5,946,294 $ 7,575,347
$
5,590,537
$
13,165,884
$
$ $
15,175,014
$
1,743,516 $ 6,332,396 $ 8,075,912
1,689,692 $ 6,410,756 $ 8,100,448 $
6,642,931
$
Total Liabilities & Equities
3,566,694 11,184,736 $ 423,584
$
$
Equity
2017
14,718,843
$
2019*
S T A T E M E N T
Net Revenue Cost of Sales & Operating Expenses Income from Operations
$
22,608,011 $ 23,316,793 ($708,782)
Other Income/Expenses Income Before Taxes Net Income
($366,514) ($1,075,296) ($1,075,296)
., . , -
7,074,567
$
15,175,014
$
*2019 numbers are preliminary and pre-audit
I N C O M E
October Open Board Meeting
2018
2017
We’ll provide snacks & refreshments, New Pi style!
24,608,498 $ 24,933,592 ($325,094)
$
26,846,791 $ 26,798,686 $ 48,105
Results for your New Pi Board of Directors will be announced.
($252,970) ($578,064) ($456,494)
($320,350) ($272,245) ($214,941)
Everyone is welcome.
$
*2019 numbers are preliminary and pre-audit
annual report 2019 • www.newpi.coop
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VOTE! VOTE! BALLOTS DUE OCT. 24 IN STORE
22 S. Van Buren St. Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 338-9441 open daily 7am–10pm www.newpi.coop Change Service Requested
Shop Co-op favorites anytime of day, pick up when convenient.
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