"We're not here just to show up, we're here to make a difference in people's lives."

- Dennis Hanley

Welcome to a fresh and invigorating episode of Ozark Natural Foods, The Co-Op Podcast, where we dive into the heart of Northwest Arkansas' food scene. In this episode, host Randy Wilburn is thrilled to welcome two pivotal figures steering the course of the largest food Co-Op in Arkansas—Dennis Hanley, the interim General Manager, and Alicia Powell, the Operations Manager.

Dennis brings with him a wealth of global retail experience, spanning 48 years and various formats, including his latest foray into the natural and organic space with Ozark Natural Foods. Alicia, a seasoned Co-Op veteran, shares her journey through different roles and her vision for the Co-Op's operational excellence. Together, they're writing the next chapter in the Co-Op's storied history, infusing the space with a vibrant and empowering culture that resonates with both staff and customers alike.

• The transformative leadership of Dennis Hanley and his approach to revitalizing the Co-Op with a focus on empowerment and fun.
• Alicia Powell's insights into the operational shifts that are bringing back the Co-Op's roots and creating a happier, more positive shopping experience.
• The unique challenges grocery stores face in providing healthy food options and how the Co-Op addresses these issues with its local-first ethos.
• The importance of community and member-owner engagement in shaping the Co-Op's offerings and driving its growth.
• The exciting future of Ozark Natural Foods as it continues to evolve and serve as a beacon of local, fresh, and sustainable food in Arkansas.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• The transformative leadership of Dennis Hanley and his approach to revitalizing the Co-Op with a focus on empowerment and fun.
• Alicia Powell's insights into the operational shifts that are bringing back the Co-Op's roots and creating a happier, more positive shopping experience.
• The unique challenges grocery stores face in providing healthy food options and how the Co-Op addresses these issues with its local-first ethos.
• The importance of community and member-owner engagement in shaping the Co-Op's offerings and driving its growth.
• The exciting future of Ozark Natural Foods as it continues to evolve and serve as a beacon of local, fresh, and sustainable food in Arkansas.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Visit Ozark Natural Foods: The Co-Op website to learn more about their history, standards of quality, and the importance of being locally focused.
• Listen to Ozark Natural Foods: The Co-Op podcast to hear stories and information about the largest food Co-Op in Arkansas.
• Check out Modus Studio's website to learn more about its architecture and prototyping services.
• Explore the Co-Op's new location at the corner...

“Knowing where your food comes from is a huge part of your life”.

- Becky Canning

Born and raised on a farm in Ames, Iowa, Becky Canning had a deep-rooted appreciation for locally sourced food. In 2014, her move to Fayetteville, Arkansas introduced her to a community that echoed her passion for homegrown produce. It was this shared ethos that led her and her husband to launch Parmelee Homestead Creations in 2021. Specializing in jams, jellies, sauces, and salsas, the business also offers home canning lessons and seedlings for aspiring patio gardeners.

Adapting her farming techniques to Arkansas's distinct soil and climate was a challenge for Becky. She found innovative solutions, such as using compost and raised garden beds, to compensate for the less fertile ground. To further her business acumen, she participated in a local food-focused business program, gaining invaluable insights and resources.

At the core of her venture is a commitment to supporting local food systems. Parmelee Homestead Creations aims to provide high-quality products tailored to diverse dietary needs, like their vegan raspberry jam. Becky stresses the importance of community and accountability, valuing the role that organizations like local co-ops play in connecting consumers with farmers.

Though she misses the rich soil of her Iowa upbringing, Becky has wholeheartedly embraced her new life in the Ozarks. Through Parmley Homestead Creations, she continues to foster a love for home canning and gardening within her community.

• Discover the magic of Parmelee Homestead Creations' canning and engaging with local foods.
• Understand the immense value of supporting local farmers and businesses via co-ops.
• Uncover unique ways to adapt and adjust your business strategies in the face of challenges.
• Appreciate the role of The Co-Op in fostering community bonding and spreading educational endeavors.
• Grasp the importance of choosing sustainable and healthy food options for a better consumer experience.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Visit Ozark Natural Foods store in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to purchase jam, jelly, Sauce, and Salsas from Parmelee Homestead Creations.
• Embrace the valuable opportunity you've been given by indulging in the gift of canning lessons.
• Follow Parmelee Homestead Creations on Facebook.

Ozark Natural Foods

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• Email Us at Info@ONF.Coop
• Connect With Our Facebook Page
• Join The Facebook Group
• Connect With Our Instagram
• Connect...

“Our work begins with an approach that is grounded in curiosity and learning.”

- Shane Hart

In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Shane Hart, a creative and branding consultant who helped revitalize a local Co-Op in Fayetteville. Shane, with his deep roots in the community and a personal connection to the Co-Op, was eager to tackle this significant project.

To understand the Co-Op's essence, Shane's team engaged in months of research. They spoke to a diverse group of stakeholders—board members, customers, vendors, and farmers—to grasp the unique history and values that defined the Co-Op.

What emerged was a revitalized brand that strikes a perfect balance: honoring its community-focused legacy while also attracting new members and shoppers. Shane's commitment to the project stemmed from recognizing the Co-Op's iconic status in Fayetteville, and his vision was instrumental in reestablishing it as a beloved institution.

Today, thanks to this thoughtful approach to branding and community engagement, the Co-Op remains an integral part of life in Fayetteville, successfully adapting to the evolving food market.

• Delve into the importance of community involvement in the realm of Co-Op success.
• Realize the diverse benefits that arise from supporting local farming and craftsmanship.
• Grasp the obstacles faced in branding and marketing co-operatives and effective methods to tackle them.
• Understand the impact of compelling narratives in engaging potential members.
• Explore how to adjust to evolving circumstances while preserving your Co-Op's cherished past.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Listen to Ozark Natural Foods: The Co-Op podcast to learn about the history and standards of quality of the Co-Op.
• Check out Black Box's website to learn more about their creative and branding consultancy services.
• Become a member of the Co-Op to support the community and have access to exclusive benefits.

Ozark Natural Foods

• Grab our Newsletter
• Email Us at Info@ONF.Coop
• Connect With Our Facebook Page
• Join The Facebook Group
• Connect With Our Instagram
• Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
• Learn more about the History of Food Coops

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