Willy Street Co-op wins city of Middleton, Wisconsin’s sustainability award

From left: Deb Weitzel, Sustainability Committee Member; Kristie Pulvermacher, Sustainability Committee Member; Cari Johnson, Willy West Assistant Store Director; Frantseska Kois, Willy West Store Director; and Richard Lathrop, Sustainability Committee Member. [photo courtesy Willy Street Co-op]Willy Street Co-op's Willy West location is among eight individuals, businesses and organizations recognized by the city of Middleton, Wisconsin for local leadership in sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Now in its fourth year, the Sustainable Middleton Awards celebrate measurable actions that reduce environmental impact, conserve resources and strengthen community well-being.

The award and press release from Middleton's Sustainability Committee highlight Willy West's specific contributions:

• Supported local food systems by offering 450 local brands that generate one-third of the co-op's annual sales.
• Distributed $20,000 in community grants in 2025 through a new "Rooted in Our Community" section of its Community Reinvestment Fund
• Generated renewable energy through rooftop solar, offsetting 22% of the store's electricity use.

Willy West Store Director Frantseska Kois acknowledged the nomination on Facebook and Instagram. "We are grateful to work with a team that cares about doing better for our communities and environment. This recognition belongs to all of us," she said.

"These award winners show what sustainability looks like in action," said Kristie Pulvermacher, chair of the Middleton Sustainability Committee. "From reducing emissions to protecting natural spaces, their work is making a real difference here in Middleton."

Willy Street Co-op opened its Willy West location in 2010, becoming one of the few U.S. food co-ops at the time to open multiple stores. All Willy Street locations prioritize sustainability practices.

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