Business Description:

Many people imagine that the co-operative movement is a single national organisation – this is far from the reality. The movement is in fact made up of many separate and independent societies united in their common belief in certain values and principles and with the shared aim of serving their members.

The co-operative movement has its roots in the 19th Century when the industrial revolution resulted in widespread exploitation and misery for many working people. One particular form of exploitation that was common was the way that many people found it difficult to obtain good quality food at a fair price. The development of shops had not kept pace with the growth of the new industrial communities and often families had no choice but to buy from unscrupulous local shopkeepers who had a monopoly on trade and therefore were able to charge high prices or adulterate their goods.

The movement still retains its principles by being owned and democratically controlled by its members. It still uses its profits for the mutual and individual benefit of members and seeks to give its customers a fair deal. Societies also continue to provide a wide range of educational, social and cultural activities and are widely involved in the communities they serve.

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