Tucked away on Main Street in downtown Goshen, just blocks from the theater, sits a hidden gem, the Maple City Market. Known simply as “the co-op” to many longtime shoppers, this small but mighty store is more than just a grocery stop. It’s a hub for sustainable, local living and a symbol of community values in an ever-commercialized world.

At first glance, the store seems relatively small, with not much going on outside. Once inside, though, the aisles reveal a treasure trove of goods from locally made soaps and creamery products to fresh produce and organic bulk foods. The aroma of natural flour and earthy undertones fills the air, pulling shoppers into the heart of a truly local shopping experience.

Founded in 1975 by Goshen College students as a simple buying club, the market has grown into a full-service co-op grocery store. 

According to the Maple City Market’s website, the group moved from a downtown garage into its current location in 1996 and officially became the Maple City Market in 2001. Since then, it has expanded its offerings, including a popular pre-made food section that attracts busy professionals on their lunch breaks. Beyond its shelves and shopping carts, the Maple City Market stands out for its cooperative structure. Unlike corporate chains, the market is member-owned and governed democratically. Members vote on leadership and major decisions, shaping everything from product selection to store policies.

“Produce is the most important item the co-op sells,” said Brad Alstrom, general manager, in a 2022 interview with Edible Michiana. That emphasis on fresh, local food reflects the market’s commitment to sustainability and supporting small farmers and vendors.

To better understand that mission, employee Katelyn Guzman, whose husband also works at the market as a chef, shared her thoughts. “I believe that smaller businesses support the local economy over big corporations that support shareholders,” Guzman said during a conversation on a sunny Wednesday afternoon.

She addressed a common misconception that the market is significantly more expensive than other grocery stores. “In reality, it all depends on what you’re buying,” she said. “When you factor in the local contribution and everything involved in getting that product to the store, you’re doing more than just shopping. You’re investing in your community,” Guzman said.

Guzman also highlighted some of the sustainability practices the store uses daily, from in-house composting to offering bulk goods that reduce packaging waste. These practices align with broader research showing that local businesses are often more environmentally friendly than large chains. 

According to a report from Michigan State University, locally owned businesses “can make more local purchases, requiring less transportation, and generally operate from within city centers.” The market’s impact isn’t limited to its shelves. It plays a vital role in Goshen’s economy by supporting local vendors and creating jobs. 

A study by the Food Distribution Research Society noted that money spent on local food remains in the community, circulating among residents and businesses. Michigan State also reported that small businesses create two out of every three new jobs nationally.

Tara Sparks, a Goshen resident of nearly 20 years and a loyal market member, offered her insights. “I’m in full support of shopping local,” Sparks said. “Keeping things local and supporting the surrounding farms is a bonus to living in Goshen.”

Sparks, a former small business owner, agreed with Guzman’s view on pricing. “It’s not more expensive across the board,” she said. “If you compare it to the health food section of a big grocery store, the prices are actually competitive.” She’s also noticed changes in the store’s social media presence and product variety in recent years, both signs of growth and adaptability.

In nearly five decades, the Maple City Market has gone from a student-led buying club to a cornerstone of the Goshen community. Through its partnerships with local farmers, member-led structure, and commitment to sustainability, the co-op continues to thrive in a changing retail landscape.

As many towns face the pressure of big-box stores and corporate chains, Goshen remains fortunate to have a market like this — one that keeps dollars local, promotes environmental consciousness, and fosters a sense of community.

Though it may still be a “hidden” gem on Main Street, the Maple City Market’s influence on the town continues to be anything but small.