CDS Consulting Cooperative is pleased to announce the formation of a new cooperative and a new name for the consultant group that has been providing services to food co-ops through Cooperative Development Services (CDS). Creating the CDS Consulting Cooperative was a mutual decision among CDS and the food co-op consultants to focus our organizational resources, increase efficiency and strengthen the mission of both cooperative organizations.

Since 1985, Cooperative Development Services (CDS) has dedicated its resources to building and strengthening cooperative businesses through education, training, consulting and other services. When CDS began assisting food co-ops two decades ago, its services started with the work of a few talented individuals. Through experience and leadership, as well as the growing need for expertise in the food co-op sector, there are now over fifteen consultants working to serve this particular client base.

The members of CDS Consulting Co-op are the same consultants who have provided services to our clients. By pooling resources in the co-op, member consultants provide themselves with more efficient administrative and communication services. Marilyn Scholl will serve as the manager of CDS Consulting Co-op; Mark Goehring is the chair of the co-op’s board of directors.

CDS Consulting Cooperative will continue to collaborate with CDS to maintain our long and productive partnership. CDS itself remains committed to food co-op development through Food Co-op 500, and will continue to organize and support cooperatives, especially producer-owned co-ops and businesses in the organic, sustainable and natural foods and renewable energy sectors.

What does this change mean for our clients? We’ll be operating under a new name with the same talented consultants you’ve already developed relationships with. Our address will change. That’s about it.

You’ll still be able to reach us through our individual contact information. Our group of consultants will continue to offer all the high-quality training seminars, coaching and technical expertise we are known for.