Wintergreen Natural Foods

As part of the law firm's commitment to the community, our attorneys provide reduced or free legal services to many community-based organizations.  One of these organizations is the Wintergreen Food Cooperative, or Wintergreen Natural Foods.  

Wintergreen is one of the oldest food coops in Minnesota and provides natural foods in a local grocery store setting. Wintergreen Natural Foods started doing business on November 26th 1976. Since that time, it has been run by a dedicated group of board members, volunteers and employees who maintain and provide Albert Lea with a source of local and organic products. Wintergreen has been a strong supporter and advocate of local growers and producers. Wintergreen proudly sells; Larry Schultz Organic Chicken from Owatonna, MN, Eckstrom Gardens honey from Albert Lea, MN, Whole Grain Milling organic chips from Welcome, MN, Hilltop Gardens vegetables from Hollandale, MN, and so much more. In addition to supporting local businesses, Wintergreen has a continuing effort to support Fair Trade, Women Owned, Orangutan friendly producers and other cooperatively run companies. 

Attorney Matt Benda acts as the attorney for Wintergreen on a volunteer basis.  As issues arise, the Board and staff rely on Benda to provide guidance on contract, employee and board-related matters.  If specific issues arise, Benda will attend board meetings in person and provide confidential advice to board members.  As explained by Andrew Wescott, Wintergreen Treasurer, "Matt often acts as the go-between for the board and different contract vendors to ensure that Wintergeen is treated fairly.  He has always been accessible to the board and his service is much appreciated by the board and everyone that cherishes Wintergreen."

In addition, Wintergreen recently went through revamping of their board make-up and procedures.  According to outgoing Board President Ariel Barkeim, "Matt was always just an email away and helped provide guidance and insight on everything from how to run a meeting to providing valuable insight on financial and employment related matters."  

Wintergreen Natural Foods is a great asset to the Albert Lea community and the law firm of Peterson, Kolker, Haedt & Benda, LTD, is proud to call Wintergreen one of our favorite community-based clients!

​Visit them at Wintergreen Natural Foods.