Consumer cooperatives are businesses owned and operated by a group of individuals who come together to meet their common needs, such as purchasing goods or services. Members of a consumer cooperative typically pay a fee to join and have a say in how the cooperative is run, including voting on important decisions. The goal is to provide quality products at fair prices while sharing any profits among the members. These cooperatives can take various forms, including grocery stores, housing associations, and credit unions. By pooling resources, members can benefit from collective buying power and create a supportive community. Examples of successful consumer cooperatives include REI and Co-op Food.