Equity FAQ
Q. What is equity?
Equity is the total value of the shares of the Dill Pickle. Each share of equity represents an ownership stake in our cooperative business. This amount represents an investment in the financial stability and growth of the co-op.
Q. HOW MANY SHARES ARE REQUIRED FOR OWNERSHIP?
An individual needs only purchase one (1) share ($100) to be considered an owner.
Q. I HAVE ONE SHARE, CAN I BUY MORE SHARES?
Yes! You can purchase up to 10 shares ($1,000). Please follow this link if you’d like to purchase additional shares.
Q. dO I HAVE TO PAY AGAIN NEXT YEAR?
No, once you purchase a share you do not have to repurchase your share again. Your share will retain its value and benefits for life. If you’d like to support our continued growth and financial stability you can always purchase additional shares, up to a maximum of 10 shares.
Q. I signed up via the $10/month option, do I still get benefits even though I haven’t paid my share in full yet?
You will receive full owner benefits as soon as you subscribe to your first $10 payment. The start date of your ownership will be from the time of your first payment. We do ask that you pay your full $100 within one calendar year of your first payment.
Q. I saw that the equity bylaws changed and I am confused about whether my current shares are now worth less?
No, your shares will retain the same value and benefits, we just simplified our equity structure to allow for more accessible membership, while also allowing for deeper investment for those owners who would like to contribute more. Each owner receives the same benefits, regardless of the number of equity shares held.
Q. Do additional shares of equity gain me any dividends or investment returns?
The Dill Pickle does not currently offer dividends or other investment returns on equity, though we do provide discounts to owners and exclusive sales. In profitable years, the co-op can elect to offer purchase rebates to our owners as a percentage of sales.
Q. I no longer shop at the Dill Pickle or I am moving, can I return my shares?
We appreciate you being a part of our co-op and are sorry to see you go! Please use this link to request your shares back. The Dill Pickle Board will review requests at the monthly board meeting.
Q. How does a loan differ from equity?
Loans are accepted from owners who have purchased at least one share of equity. Equity is a fixed share amount and ensures membership in our business. Loans are considered a separate investment that are subject to the terms and conditions decided between the lender and the Dill Pickle. Loans are to be repaid by the Dill Pickle upon maturity, subject to review and approval of the board of directors. To learn more about our Owner Loan program please click here.
Q. I signed up online for a monthly payment, and my credit card information has changed or I would like to cancel my payments. How can I do this?
Our online payments are processed electronically via Moonclerk, an online payment platform. Please contact ownership@dillpickle.coop and include your name and phone number. Owner services will contact you to update your payment information or to confirm the cancelation of payments. Please do not include any credit card information via email.