I spoke at the AGM of the National Federation of Progressive Co-operators (of which I am a member) in London on Saturday 15th June 2019.
In a wide-ranging discussion we covered topics such as the role of Council in the governance of the Society, the progress in building the local member structures and Co-op Local Forums, how to apply the co-operative principles in a modern, consumer co-operative, reaching new demographics and recruiting new members.
I’m convinced that there’s a significant demographic trend of younger, more ethically and socially-conscious consumers that we still aren’t getting through to – an idea supported by many members present at the meeting.
We need to do much more to communicate our unique co-op difference and why as a member-owned enterprise, led by our Values and Principles, we are a genuinely alternative way of doing business. That’s why a ‘Principle 5’ policy and programme of Co-operative Member Education, Training and Information is so important.