Member Appreciation Days
Dear Members,
One of the strengths of a cooperative is that member voices truly matter, and the recent conversations surrounding member discounts and Member Appreciation Days (MAD) reinforced that. Thank you to everyone who shared thoughtful feedback, passion, and care regarding the recent changes. We heard clearly that the loss of flexibility created frustration for many members.
At the same time we reintroduced Member Appreciation Days (MAD), inflation climbed sharply and gas prices soared, placing additional financial strain on many in our community. Like many households and businesses, the Co-op is also experiencing rising costs across operations, products, and services. The recent discount structure was introduced as a trial intended to support the long-term health of the Co-op while also bringing back the sense of community connection that many members enjoyed through past MAD events. However, we heard clearly that members value the flexibility of using discounts when it works best for them. We remain committed to balancing the long-term health of the Co-op with our shared goal of keeping the Market welcoming, accessible, and affordable for our community.
After listening to member and staff feedback, the Board and Management have decided to rescind the restriction tying one monthly discount to Member Appreciation Days.
Starting on June 1, 2026, members will once again have two discretionary discounts each month that may be used at the time that works best for them.
We will continue to hold one Member Appreciation Day on the second Wednesday of each month — not as a discount mechanism, but as a genuine opportunity for our community to gather and connect.
Thank you for continuing to engage with us as we work to support both the long-term health of the Co-op and the community we serve.
With gratitude and in cooperation,
South Royalton Market Board of Directors
Misti Berry, President
Jenny Lane, Vice President
David Brandau, Co-Treasurer
Kip Bergstom, Co-Treasurer
Sara Dakin, Secretary
Bob Slattery
Cathy Lawson
Gordon Merrick
Peter Anderson
To be Clear
The MAD on May 27th was the last one with a discount tied to it.
June’s MAD will be on the 10th and be the first with no discount tied to it.
We look forward to seeing you at the Co-op!
We 'preciate cha
We are so very excited to let our community know that Member Appreciation Days (MADs) have returned! They take place on the second Wednesday of each month.
Before 2020, MAD was a monthly celebration of our members where local farmers and food producers held demos, there were free samples all over the store, and our community had the delightful opportunity to celebrate together, visit with neighbors, make new friends and connections, and talk with our staff.
Unlike before, one of your two monthly member discounts will not be tied to a MAD. Please read below to learn why we are excited to be bringing MAD back!
Bringing Back Member Appreciation Days
Beginning in March, SoRo Market is bringing back Member Appreciation Days (MAD). Each and every MAD will celebrate our customers, our members, and the wonderful community in which we’ve been operating since 2001. Just as in years past (pre-2020), MAD will feature free samples, snacks and local vendor demos. We are excited to bring back this popular regular Co-op event.
Upcoming MADs
Why We’re Bringing Back Member Appreciation Days
- Member Appreciation Days are about community, not just discounts. Before 2020, MADs were one of the most-loved ways members connected with the Co-op—through food, conversation, and local vendors. We’re excited to bring that back.
- This change strengthens the cooperative experience. MADs give members a shared moment: free samples, snacks, demos, and a lively store atmosphere that reflects why the co-op exists.
- It supports local producers and staff connections. Vendor demos and in-store engagement help highlight local partners while giving staff more opportunities to connect directly with members.
Why One Discount Is Now Tied to MAD?
- We want to encourage members to participate in these community days. Requiring one discount to be used during MAD helps ensure these events are well-attended and vibrant.
- Members still have flexibility. One discount remains a “Wild Card” that can be used on any day of the month—no change there.
- The value of membership hasn’t changed. Discount rates (5% Blue/15% Gold) and all other benefits stay exactly the same.
Why We’re Bringing Back Member Appreciation Days
- Member Appreciation Days are about community, not just discounts. Before 2020, MADs were one of the most-loved ways members connected with the Co-op—through food, conversation, and local vendors. We’re excited to bring that back.
- This change strengthens the cooperative experience. MADs give members a shared moment: free samples, snacks, demos, and a lively store atmosphere that reflects why the co-op exists.
- It supports local producers and staff connections. Vendor demos and in-store engagement help highlight local partners while giving staff more opportunities to connect directly with members.
Why One Discount Is Now Tied to MAD?
- We want to encourage members to participate in these community days. Requiring one discount to be used during MAD helps ensure these events are well-attended and vibrant.
- Members still have flexibility. One discount remains a “Wild Card” that can be used on any day of the month—no change there.
- The value of membership hasn’t changed. Discount rates (5% Blue / 15% Gold) and all other benefits stay exactly the same.
MAD Posts
Jack Vorster of SoRo Won the $25 Gift Card on MAD – Be the Next!
A big congrats goes to Jack Vorster of SoRo! He won our $25 gift card giveaway at our last Member Appreciation Day (MAD) on 4/22. Members may enter to win when they use their discount on MADs which occur every
Flack Family Farm to Give Live Demo on April 22
We are thrilled that Flack Family Farm, Fairfield, VT, https://www.flackfamilyfarm.com/will be offering a live demo on the afternoon of Member Appreciation Day (MAD) on April 22nd! Read on to learn about the excellent products of theirs that we proudly carry.
Local Sisters to Have Cookbook Signing on April 22nd
Local sisters Jenna & Nora Rice will be at the Co-op on Member Appreciation Day on April 22 from about 4-6pm to celebrate and sign copies of their new cookbook, The Vermont Farm to Table Cookbook, which will be available
MAD FAQs
What are Member Appreciation Days (MAD)?
Member Appreciation Days are monthly celebrations of our members and community, held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. They include free samples, snacks, and local vendor demos—just like before 2020.
When does this start?
Beginning in March, MADs will be held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month.
What’s changing about member discounts?
Starting in June 2026, Members still receive two discounts per month, and they are not tied to Member Appreciation Days.
Are discount rates changing?
No. Blue members still receive 5%, Gold members still receive 15%, all other member benefits remain unchanged.
Is this permanent?
This is a return to a long-standing, pre-2020 Co-op practice. We’ll continue listening to member feedback and adjusting as needed.
How does this benefit the Co-op?
Builds stronger member engagement, supports local producers, creates a more vibrant in-store experience, and reinforces the cooperative values that make SoRo Market special.