Unlocking the Power
of Cooperative Purchasing
At Partners in Nutrition Cooperative, we understand the challenges school nutrition programs face. Our cooperative model delivers tangible advantages that help your district serve students better while optimizing your resources.
Why School Districts Choose PINCO
Strategic Purchasing Power
Enhanced Processing Options for All
Whether you’re a small rural district or a large urban system, PINCO membership gives you access to the full spectrum of commodity processing options typically available only to the largest districts. Our collective approach ensures no district is left behind.
Unmatched Price Advantages
Your district immediately benefits from our substantial collective purchasing power. Through consolidated bid awards based on total cooperative usage, we secure the lowest possible prices from vendors—savings that translate directly to your bottom line and allow you to stretch your nutrition dollars further.
Streamlined Operations
Flexible Storage Solutions
Our dedicated Service Center serves as your extended warehouse, storing food items until you’re ready to receive them. This flexibility allows you to optimize your own storage space while ensuring product is available when you need it.
Reliable Distribution Network
Enjoy the convenience of weekly deliveries directly to your district warehouse or individual school sites. Our consistent delivery schedule helps you maintain optimal inventory levels while reducing your logistical burden.
Financial Transparency
True Cost Model
Unlike other purchasing arrangements, PINCO operates with complete transparency. There are no markups on food purchases and absolutely no hidden fees—you pay only the actual cost of the food you receive.
Fair Monthly Fee Structure
Our monthly fees for management services, storage, and distribution are calculated based on actual expenses incurred each month and distributed equitably among member districts. This ensures you never pay for services you don’t use.
Inventory Management
Automated Commodity Tracking
Let PINCO handle the complex task of tracking your commodity balances at processors. Our sophisticated systems maintain accurate, real-time records of your entitlements, allowing you to make informed decisions about your food program.
Data-Driven Planning Support
Access detailed reports and analytics that help you maximize the value of your USDA Foods entitlement and plan effectively for future needs.
Join the Leading Nutrition
Cooperative in California
PINCO members consistently report greater program efficiency, reduced administrative burden, and improved meal quality. Our cooperative approach transforms how school districts manage their nutrition programs, creating better outcomes for both administrators and the students they serve