The Community Mercantile (the Merc) is a full-service grocery store specializing in organic and naturally produced foods. They also use Energy Star appliances throughout the store.

Since 1974, Community Mercantile has been Lawrence's primary source for natural, whole foods. "The Merc" is the largest consumer-owned natural foods store in the state of Kansas. We are a cooperative retail grocery store now over 2,500 members strong, providing our community with a diverse selection including locally grown produce, meat, poultry and a variety of products from other high-quality businesses. We offer foods that are organically grown, minimally processed and free of toxins. The Merc responds to our members requests for products they need in order to make us their primary grocery store.

The Community Mercantile takes to heart the co-op principle "concern for community." Each year increasing the amount of donations we give to groups in Lawrence and the surrounding areas. We also connect with the community through our nutrition education and outreach program. Thousands of local school children, seniors, special needs groups and the general public learn the basics of nutrition by attending these classes at the Merc-all of which we teach at no cost to the community.