Buyers Groups

Are you feeling the pinch of rising living costs in Australia? In 2024, navigating expenses can be daunting, but there's a solution: forming a buyer's group. By banding together with like-minded individuals, you can significantly slash your household expenses. From groceries to household essentials, pooling resources enables bulk purchasing power, unlocking access to wholesale discounts and special deals. With the rising cost of living, a buyer's group isn't just a smart financial move; it's a lifeline for those seeking to stretch their dollars further in today's economy.

With People of Coffee it is easy, if you are purchasing less than 12 products just order online, there is no need to set up an account as we have a volume-based cart discount on our retail coffee site, as you add more products it builds up to a 30% discount once you hit 12 products.

If you are purchasing dozens of products at a time then click the link to Apply for a Whole Sale account.

How to Start a Buying Group:

Gather a Community: Bring together a group of people living nearby who are interested in collectively buying food in bulk.
Define Shared Values: Discuss and agree upon shared values regarding food purchasing and consumption. This will shape the criteria for sourcing food, such as proximity, organic options, minimal packaging, fair pricing for farmers, etc.
Choose Products: Decide on the types of products the group wants to purchase together, whether it's fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, dry goods, or a combination of these.
Research Food Safety Standards: Depending on what, where, and how you purchase, investigate and adhere to food safety standards, especially for items like meat, dairy, and eggs.
Participate in the Process: Members should be involved in planning, shopping, sorting, and delivering food. Some members may contribute time in exchange for free or discounted food.
Coordinate Delivery: Determine whether food will be delivered to individual homes or a community hub for collection. Ensure there's appropriate cold storage if perishable items are included.
Decide Order Frequency: Set the frequency of orders based on the group's preferences and the types of products involved. Perishable items may require more frequent orders compared to dry goods.
Establish Relationships: Build connections with farmers, suppliers, and producers directly or through a Food Hub. Decide whether to receive bulk deliveries for sorting or pre-sorted orders.
Identify Key Champions: Success often relies on dedicated individuals who handle administration, coordination, and recruitment. Leadership within the group is crucial.
Foster Community: A sense of community enhances the group's success. Existing community structures can provide a foundation, but new groups can also form with effort and patience.
Formalise Structure (Optional): Consider formalizing the group as an incorporated association or a consumer cooperative, depending on its size and goals.