FAQs | Common Market

General FAQs

Does the store offer gift cards or gift certificates?

Yes. You can purchase gift cards in any amount.

Do you accept EBT/food stamps?

Yes.

What type of products do you sell?

We sell a variety of natural and organic foods.

Who can shop at a co-op?

Everyone is welcome! You do not have to be an owner to shop with us. Once you have seen the benefit of your local co-op, though, we hope you will decide to become an owner and enjoy ownership benefits.

Are senior discounts available to non-owners?

Yes. On Wednesdays, customers 60+ receive 5% off their purchase and a free small self-serve coffee or tea.

It’s organic/local so it must be expensive, right?

Not necessarily. While organic and local products can cost more, many of the prices of products the co-op carries are comparable to other area grocery stores.

What is the store’s return policy

We want you to love the items you purchase from us! If for any reason you are not satisfied with a product from the Co-op, your money will be refunded the same way you paid within 30 days with a receipt. All other eligible returns and payments by check will be refunded with store credit or at the discretion of management.

Please understand we are unable take returns on the following items:

magazines and books
masks
bras, socks, and underwear
clearance and Manager’s Sale items

Owner FAQs

Why should I become an Owner?

There are many benefits of being an owner in your local co-op, from personal benefits to community benefits. These include:

• A 10% discount on Owner Appreciation Days

• A subscription to our bi-monthly newsletter, Spoonful

• A Patronage Rebate in years the co-op is profitable

• A 50% discount on Community Room classes. View our schedule here.

• Keeping farms in the community

• Keeping profits in the community

• Encouraging and supporting sustainable practices

• And much more!

I’m convinced! How do I become an owner?

You can become an owner by completing an equity share form and investing $200 into the co-op. This can be done all up front or in quarterly payments of $25. It’s a one-time fee for lifetime benefits! Visit the Ownership page for more information.

How old do I have to be to become an owner?

You must be at least 18 years of age to become an owner.

The ownership page mentioned a Patronage Rebate. What is that?

The Patronage Rebate is the amount given back to an owner at the end of the co-op’s fiscal year each year the co-op is profitable. Owners may redeem their rebate for cash at the Common Market, apply it toward their equity balance or purchases, or donate it to a Common Market charity. But these rebates are only available for 90 days, so be sure to take advantage of your rebate before it expires!

Who can use the owner card?

Anyone in your household may use the owner card that is attached to your ownership account. To find out more, visit our Service Desk.

What does it mean to be an owner “in good standing”?

Being in good standing as an owner means you are up-to-date on equity payments. If you are not in good standing, simply make a payment on your account at a register and you will be back in good standing.

I’m no longer interested in ownership. Can I get a refund?

Yes. Regardless of why you are choosing this option, equity shares are 100% refundable. You will need to fill out our Refund Request Form and choose one of the following three options: drop it off to our Service Desk, mail to 927 W. 7th St. Frederick, MD 21701, or email to ownerservices@commonmarket.coop. The request will be presented to the Board of Directors for approval. Once approved, a check will be made out to you for the amount invested. This process can take 6-8 weeks.