If you’re already a member of the Co-op, then you’re probably pretty passionate about beer, food, and co-operative principles. There’s a good chance that you’ve chatted up someone sitting next to you at a bar about Black Star and about how you own a brewpub. However, getting other people to join the Co-op can be a little more challenging. They’ll have questions, so you should have answers. Below are a few talking points that will help you “seal the deal” with that person at the bar (no, not that deal!).
What is Black Star Co-op?
Black Star Co-op is a group of mainly local folks that set the goal to open up their own “neighborhood” brewpub. There’s currently over 1500 member-owners of the co-op. Black Star is democratically run…every owner has a voice and 1 vote. The brewpub-set to open Summer 2010-will be run by a professionally trained, paid staff of passionate member-owners. While everyone will be welcome to the brewpub, only member-owners can have a say in how the co-op operates.
Why would I want to join the Co-op?
The answer to this is usually different from person to person. Some people love beer and brewing. To them I’d say that member-owners will have a direct participation in the beers being made. Member-owner will inspire, assist in designing, and refine the house beers. Some people are foodies. To them I’d say Black Star is dedicated to finding the gastro-voice of Austin and prepare true Texas Pub Fare (TM). Some folks feel strongly about a democratically worker-self managed establishment, striving to change the paradigm of how businesses are owned and operated. It’s important to listen to the folks you’re chatting up…Black Star has so much to offer, almost everyone will find something get them inspired to join.
What are the benefits of joining the Co-op?
Some of the benefits are:
-Voting power!
-Member appreciation events
-Patronage refunds
-Bragging rights
-”Beer with the Board” specials
-Free “Birthday” Beer
-Eligibility to join University Federal Credit Union www.ufcu.org
As the Co-op develops, more benefits will become available.
Once you’ve piqued the interest of the person you’re talking to, it’ll be time to seal the deal with membership. Get them to sign up! As you probably know, the best way to sign up is on our website. Our goal is to have over 2000 member-owners when we open this Summer. If you ask 5 people you know (or random people at a bar), then with your help, we’ll soon all be sitting on the Black Star Co-op Pub & Brewery patio watching the trains go by!
For more information on membership stuff, go here.
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