Michelle Schry Named National Co+op Grocers Vice President
The veteran cooperative leader has been promoted to a newly created executive role at the national organization.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Organic Food
National Co+op Grocers has appointed Michelle Schry as its new Vice President of Member Success. In this newly established position, she will lead efforts to support the growth and operational performance of member cooperatives across the country.
Why it matters
The creation of this executive role signals an increased focus on centralizing support for cooperative grocery stores nationwide. By aligning departments like business expansion and retail operations under one leader, the organization aims to standardize success metrics across its member network.
Michelle Schry brings over 25 years of leadership experience in the cooperative grocery sector to her new role. She joined National Co+op Grocers in 2015 and previously served as the Strategic Development Director.
The players
Michelle Schry
She is the newly appointed Vice President of Member Success who also serves on the Board of U.S. Co-ops.
National Co+op Grocers
This is a business services cooperative for retail food co-ops in the United States that provides purchasing, marketing, and operational support.
People's Food Co-op
Located in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, this organization previously employed Schry as its CEO and General Manager.
The details
Schry now oversees several critical departments, including Strategic Development, Business Expansion, Retail Operations, and Transformation. Her responsibilities include guiding cooperatives through leadership development, financial growth, and retail execution strategies.
Timeline
Michelle Schry began her tenure at National Co+op Grocers in 2015.
The new executive role was announced on September 24, 2026.
Culture Shift
This appointment reflects a broader trend of professionalizing leadership within the cooperative grocery movement to compete with traditional retail chains. It signifies a move toward more cohesive, data-driven management across independent food cooperatives.
Shoppers at local member cooperatives may notice more consistent product offerings and improved store efficiencies as these new leadership strategies take hold. These operational changes are intended to help local food co-ops remain competitive and viable within their local communities.
The takeaway
The addition of this role underscores the importance of operational support in maintaining the unique mission of food cooperatives. Consumers can expect more standardized service and growth efforts from their local co-op stores as these national initiatives are implemented.
Further reading
For more on industry developments, visit the Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Deli Market News.
