How co-operatives began
Share
Image
The modern co-operative movement began in Rochdale in 1844, when the first commercially successful co-operative was founded.
How did the first successful co-op start?
The first successful co-op was formed in 1844 in Rochdale, Lancashire. At that time, living conditions in northern industrial towns were tough. Flour, sugar, butter and oats were expensive. Often, milk was watered down and mill owners mixed their flour with sawdust to increase their profits.
A group of 28 working-class men decided to change this. They raised the funds to set up a co-operative shop that provided good quality products to the community – at a fair price.
The Rochdale Pioneers
The Rochdale Pioneers – as they are now commonly known – spurred on a movement that has spread throughout the world and continues to thrive today.
Visit the Rochdale Pioneers Museum
Take a virtual tour of the Rochdale Pioneers Museum
Related content
Image
Co-ops across the world
The modern day co-op movement was founded in Rochdale, Lancashire in 1844. Since then, the co-operative model has spread across the world, impacting on the lives of over a billion people.
11th September 2020
Image
Guide to co-ops
Read our handy guide, which explains in simple terms what a co‑op is (and why they're so great).
17th July 2024
Image
More Than a Shop podcast episodes
Content by More than a Shop
The More Than a Shop podcast explores how people power and co-operation can tackle some of the biggest challenges facing society.
28th September 2020
Image
What is a co-operative
Many of us have heard of co-operatives, but do you actually know what one is?
20th October 2024
Image
Rochdale Pioneers Museum launches new virtual tour
To mark next month’s anniversary of the opening of Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Society Store, the Co‑operative Heritage Trust is launching a new virtual tour of the museum.
29th November 2021