Statement of solidarity from leading retail societies
News item
The CEOs of eleven of the UK’s leading retail societies have come together in a show of solidarity during Co-op Fortnight (22 June to 5 July).
Let's Keep Cooperating
Co-ops across the UK are showcasing some of the ways that they have supported their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, and are looking at ways that we can build something better together. As we look towards International Day of Co-operatives on 4 July, the message is loud and clear – Let's all #KeepCooperating.
Statement of solidarity
“Our co-operatives and the communities which we serve have faced immense challenges throughout the COVID-19 crisis. Co-operatives have always thrived in periods of social and economic change, when needs go unmet and people look to themselves and others for support.
All co-operatives share the principle ‘Concern for the community’,and this has been at the heart of our response to this crisis. Individually and collectively, we have all stepped up to protect our people, keep our communities served and our partners supported. None of this could have been achieved without co‑operation and collaboration.
We now have a unique opportunity to work together to rebuild our economy and communities with responsibility, fairness and kindness at its core. Let’s build something better together.
As co-operatives we believe it is important that we play our part locally but also globally. That’s why we are all supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which are in effect the ‘to do list’ for the world, focusing on, and addressing, the world’s biggest challenges and a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
The COVID-19 crisis has touched most, if not all of these Goals, having a disproportionate impact on communities already disadvantaged by pre-existing inequalities. The achievement of these goals is now more important than ever and reinforces the need for urgent, large-scale action.
We recognise that the global societal and environmental challenges we face can’t be achieved alone and that there is power in co-operation. We remain committed to continuing to work together as co-operatives and with others, so we build a better future together.”
Steve Murrells, CEO, The Co-op Group
Phil Ponsonby, Group Chief Executive, Midcounties Co-operative
Ursula Lidbetter, OBE, CEO, Lincolnshire Co-op
Don Morris, Chair, Co-operatives UK
Mark Smith, CEO, Southern Co-op
Ali Kurji, Chief Executive, Heart of England Co-operative
Debbie Robinson, Chief Executive Central England Co-operative
Elaine Dean, President, Central England Co-operative
John Brodie, Chief Executive Officer, Scotmid Co-operative
Barry Wood, Chief Executive, Chelmsford Star Co-operative
Mark Cox, Acting CEO, Channel Islands Co-operative
Niall O'Keefe, Joint Chief Executive, East of England Co-op
What is Co-op Fortnight
Co-op Fortnight 2024
