Many University of Louisville students cherish their morning coffee routine, often turning to Old Louisville Coffee Co-op (OLCC) for their fix. Unfortunately, OLCC announced its closure, effective March 22, after four years of operation. This unique coffee shop was not just a place to grab a drink; it was a queer and worker-owned establishment that offered a different approach to business management. The decision to close came from personal reasons among the co-owners, with fatigue and the challenges of running a co-op playing significant roles.
• The co-op had 13 workers since its opening, with a core team of three co-owners.
• The closure decision was a collective agreement, emphasizing the challenges of co-op management.
• OLCC aims to help another co-op take over the space after its closure.
• There's interest from various parties to maintain the coffee shop or create a multi-vendor market.
The closure of OLCC highlights the need for community spaces that allow for connection without financial pressure. It also raises awareness about the struggles of co-op businesses in a capitalist environment, where fair labor practices are often overlooked.
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