After more than a decade of grassroots organizing, community investment, and development, Prairie Food Co-op, DuPage County’s first community-owned grocery store, will open its doors to the public for the first time on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, beginning with a ribbon cutting ceremony 11:00 AM.

Located in the Eastgate Shopping Center in Lombard, Prairie Food Co-op is a full-service grocery store focused on local, sustainable, and ethically produced foods. Unlike traditional grocery stores, Prairie Food Co-op is owned by over 2,400 members (known as ‘Owners’), who have worked for years to bring this store to life.

“This opening marks a major milestone not just for Lombard, but for the greater community that has rallied behind the vision of a grocery store that puts people and planet before profit,” said Leslee Keri, Board President of Prairie Food Co-op. “It’s a powerful example of what’s possible when neighbors come together to build something meaningful.”

The soft opening will include a short ceremony for the doors open to the public for the first time ever, Board members and staff on hand to answer questions, and opportunities for shoppers to explore the store’s offerings. All are welcome to shop — ownership is not required — but Owners receive special perks and have a voice in shaping the store’s future.

For more information, visit www.prairiefood.coop or follow Prairie Food Co-op on Facebook and Instagram.

About:

Prairie Food Co-op is a community-owned, full-service grocery store in Lombard, Illinois, committed to supporting local farmers and producers, promoting environmental sustainability, and strengthening the local economy. The co-op is owned by over 2,400 community members and guided by cooperative values and democratic member control.