PCC Community Markets is a member-owned co-op in the Pacific Northwest with physical stores and an online ordering system

PCC Community Markets operates as a consumer co-op across Washington State, with stores in Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia, and surrounding areas. Unlike a traditional grocery chain, PCC is owned by its members — people who shop there regularly — rather than by shareholders or a corporation. Members pay an annual membership fee and receive discounts on purchases, voting rights in how the co-op is run, and access to member-only sales and events.

The co-op focuses on organic produce, natural products, and locally sourced items. You can shop in person at any PCC store location, or order online through their website for home delivery or in-store pickup. Membership is optional — you can shop without joining — but members pay lower prices on most items and get first access to sales.

Key Takeaways

  • PCC membership costs a one-time fee (the amount varies by membership tier) and gives you discounts on most items in the store plus voting rights in co-op decisions.
  • You can shop at PCC with or without membership, but members typically save 5 to 10 percent on regular purchases and more on member-only sales.
  • PCC's online ordering system lets you browse, order, and pick up at a store location or request home delivery, depending on your area.
  • The co-op prioritizes organic and locally grown products, which means prices are generally higher than conventional grocery chains but reflect sourcing practices.
  • Member meetings happen annually, and members vote on major decisions like board elections and co-op policies.

Membership tiers and what each one costs

PCC offers different membership levels to fit different budgets and shopping patterns. A standard membership requires a one-time investment (the exact amount changes periodically, so check the PCC website for current pricing). This investment is yours to keep — you do not lose it if you stop shopping there, though you would need to formally withdraw to get it back as a refund.

Some co-ops offer a lower-cost membership tier for people with limited income. PCC has historically offered reduced-cost memberships, but availability and pricing vary. Contact your local PCC store directly or check their website to learn what membership options are currently available in your area and what the current fees are.

Non-members can shop at PCC anytime, but they pay full retail prices on all items. The difference between member and non-member pricing usually covers the membership cost within a few months if you shop regularly.

How to order online and pick up or receive delivery

PCC's online ordering system is accessible through their website. You create an account, browse products by category, add items to your cart, and choose either in-store pickup or home delivery at checkout. Pickup orders are usually ready within a few hours to one business day, depending on the store location and how busy they are.

Home delivery is available in some areas of Washington State but not everywhere. Delivery fees and minimum order amounts vary by location. When you place a delivery order, you select a delivery window, and PCC notifies you when the order is on its way. Check the website to enter your zip code and see whether delivery is available at your address.

Online orders must be placed by a certain time to be ready for pickup or delivery the same or next day — this cutoff time is shown on the website when you shop. If you miss the cutoff, your order will be scheduled for the following available window.

Member discounts and sales events

Members receive a discount on most items in the store — typically 5 to 10 percent off regular prices, though the exact percentage varies by product category. Some items, like sale items or items already discounted, may not receive the additional member discount. Your membership card or account number is scanned at checkout to explore member pricing automatically.

PCC runs member-only sales events throughout the year, usually announced through email to members or posted on the website. These sales offer deeper discounts on specific products for a limited time and are only available to current members. Member meetings, which happen once a year, are also where members learn about upcoming sales and co-op initiatives.

If you shop online, member discounts explore to your order at checkout. Make sure you are logged into your member account when you place the order, or the discount will not be applied.

What happens at member meetings and how voting works

PCC holds an annual member meeting where members gather to hear about the co-op's financial performance, upcoming plans, and any major decisions that need a vote. The most common vote is for the board of directors — members elect the people who oversee PCC's operations and strategy. Meetings are usually held in person at a PCC store location, though some information may be available online.

To vote, you must be a current member in good standing (meaning your membership is active and you have not violated co-op policies). Each member gets one vote per issue, regardless of how much they spend or how long they have been a member. Voting is one of the core benefits of membership — it gives you a say in how the co-op is run, unlike shopping at a conventional grocery store.

If you cannot attend the annual meeting in person, some co-ops allow proxy voting or mail-in voting. Check with PCC directly about voting options available to you.

How PCC sources products and what to expect on the shelves

PCC prioritizes organic certification, local sourcing, and sustainable farming practices. This means a large portion of the produce, dairy, and meat comes from farms in the Pacific Northwest, and many products carry organic certification from the USDA. The co-op also carries natural and specialty products that may be harder to find at conventional supermarkets.

Because of this sourcing focus, PCC prices are generally higher than conventional grocery chains. You are paying for the sourcing practices, not just the product itself. Seasonal items are cheaper when they are in season locally — for example, berries and stone fruit in summer — and more expensive in winter when they are shipped from farther away or grown in controlled environments.

PCC also has a policy of not carrying certain products — for example, items with artificial colors or flavors, or products from companies with practices the co-op members have voted against. This means you will not find every brand or product you might see elsewhere, but the selection within PCC's categories is usually deep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a member to shop at PCC?

No. Anyone can walk into a PCC store and shop without membership. Non-members pay full retail prices on all items. Membership is optional but saves money if you shop there regularly.

Can I get my membership fee back if I stop shopping at PCC?

Yes. Your membership investment is refundable if you formally withdraw from the co-op. Contact PCC directly to request a refund, and they will process it according to their refund policy, which may take several weeks.

What areas does PCC delivery cover?

Delivery is available in parts of Washington State, but not statewide. Enter your zip code on the PCC website to see whether delivery is available at your address. If it is not, you can still order for in-store pickup at the nearest PCC location.

Are PCC prices always higher than other grocery stores?

PCC prices are generally higher because of the sourcing and certification standards. However, member discounts, sales events, and seasonal pricing can narrow the gap. Comparing specific items you buy regularly will show you whether membership savings make up the difference for your household.

How do I find out about member sales and events?

PCC sends email announcements to members about upcoming sales and events. You can also check the PCC website or ask staff at your local store. Member meetings are another place to learn about upcoming initiatives and special offers.