Ian Stonaker's Colleagues at Durango Natural Foods Co-op
Ian Stonaker's Contact Details
Durango Natural Foods Co-op
Ian Stonaker's Company Details
From a food buying club in 1973 to its first 10×30 ft. rented room located in the back of 700 Main Avenue, DNF once operated on an all volunteer basis and donations, using an unlocked, red fishing tackle box as its cash register!In 1974, it was legally registered with the state of Colorado as Durango Natural Foods, Inc. and in 1975 moved to a slightly larger rented space in the alley of 2nd Avenue and 7th Street, next to Family Craft Memorials. In March 1979, with the help of dedicated members, DNF purchased the northern half of its current location at 575 E. 8th Avenue.In July 1987, DNF bought the adjoining property to the West and built a parking expansion with improved handicap accessibility. In January 1999, DNF purchased the adjacent property to the South, removed an older house and constructed an adjoining building, which created new space for a fresh-food deli, plus larger retail and storage areas.With each expansion, DNF has risen to the challenge. It has grown from a rented "closet" to owning its own expanded building because committed, loyal Owners and customers have supported it with countless hours of volunteer time, their loans and donations, and their purchases.Many of the founding Owners are still active in the co-op, and over time our Ownership has continued to grow. Currently over 1,700 families and individuals share ownership of the co-op!