Food co-ops have existed since 1844, when the first opened in the UK. But they have fallen out of favour in Europe in recent decades. But the launch of The People's Supermarket in Lambs Conduit Street (near Great Ormond Street) in London could herald the start of a revival.

Shopping at the People's Supermarket is possible from 8am-9pm from Monday to Saturday and 10am-6pm on Sundays. Members pay an annual membership fee of £25 and commit to work there 4 hours every month, in exchange for which they get a say in how it is run and a 10% price discount. 

Since the workforce is nearly all volunteer labout, staffing costs are minimal, which is reflected in the lower costs. Any profits are ploughed back in to the business to push prices down further still. Check it out at www.thepeoplessupermarket.org