Always focus always on making the buying club fast, easy, and convenient. This is the best way to attract and keep satisfied members.

Make sure each member has their own copy of the monthly pricelist. Take advantage of our monthly specials.

Use a computer to save time & headaches. FoodLink Software for Buying Clubs helps buying clubs manage their orders and accounts -- and it's FREE to our customers.

Set up good systems to communicate with members. Create a website, an email distribution list, or print a newsletter with order deadlines, splits list and news.

Make it a goal to share the work fairly. Create jobs for members with special scheduling needs or unique abilities

Plan to grow. More members means less work, a larger volume discount, and greater stability for the coop.

Offer the largest selection of products possible. Develop a system for splitting cases among members.

Use a surplus table. Order the balance of that unfilled case and sell the extra at the surplus table during distribution. This gives other members a chance to try new products.

Plan to have extra money in your checking account. This can be done with a small mark-up on each order, or by passing on only part of your volume discount to members.

Take the time to orient new members. This is the best way to insure that new members enjoy the coop and meet their responsibilities.

Keep meetings as short as possible.

Have fun! Enjoy yourselves! The camaraderie of working together is a big part of a buying club. Set aside time just to socialize.

Support and recognize your leaders and activists. Appreciate and encourage the skilled people you have, and encourage new experts to develop.