Image for Staff Profile: Meet Laura Fickes

As a community-owned and cooperatively operated business, co-op employees are some of Mississippi Market’s greatest assets. Our friendly, dedicated staff possess a wealth of knowledge. They work diligently to provide you with access to the freshest, healthiest foods and the safest, most effective personal health and beauty care products available. Our three stores employ over 200 people from our surrounding local communities who are passionate about sustainably grown and humanely raised foods; supporting local family farmers, vendors and makers; and nurturing the health of people and the planet. We wouldn’t be here without them!

Interested in joining our co-op team?


Meet Laura Fickes – West 7th Store Director

What brought you to the co-op?

I’ve always been passionate about food, from its sourcing to the final dish for myself or shared with others. Growing up on a farm led me to seek sustainable food sources and advocate for that lifestyle whenever possible.

What are you most excited about as you settle into your new role?

I am excited to be part of a community of staff and customers that are supportive, understanding, and working toward a common goal of providing and eating great food.

What do you like to do during your free time?

Gardening and baking! My partner, Joe, and I grow lots of tomatoes and peppers in our backyard garden, bake lots of bread and treats, and go camping with our dog Gus. When we are not in a pandemic, I play roller derby!

What’s one of your favorite foods? Any favorite St. Paul restaurants?

I have been making a lot of tamales and love poke bowls. For a special celebration, Hyacinth is fantastic. If you sit at the bar, you can watch the magic of their house-made pasta.