Lincolnshire Co-operative

The Lincolnshire Co-op is an independent consumer co-operative that operates in Lincolnshire and nearby areas. It runs over 220 locations, including grocery stores, funeral homes, florists, crematoriums, travel agencies, post offices, and pharmacies. One of its special businesses is Gadsby's bakery, located in Southwell, Nottinghamshire.

As a co-operative, the Lincolnshire Co-op belongs to its members. These members, more than 288,000 people, share in the profits. The co-op gives money back to members as dividends, invests in better services, and supports local charities and community groups. After Lincolnshire County Council closed several libraries, the co-op stepped in to keep three libraries open for the community.

In its most recent full year, 2023/24, the Lincolnshire Co-op had a total business of £375.6 million and helped its members with a profit share of £10.8 million. It continues to grow and serve the people who live and work in its area.

About

The Lincolnshire Co-operative helps support local communities through its Community Champions scheme. Members are linked to a local cause, and each time they shop, a donation is made to that cause. This has helped many local charities and projects over the years.

The co-operative is also recognized for its commitment to its employees. It holds a prestigious Platinum Investors in People award and offers special training programs, including a Foundation Degree in Business Management created with the University of Lincoln.

History

The Lincolnshire Co-operative started in 1861 as the Lincoln Co-operative Society, inspired by a joiner named Thomas Parker from Gainsborough. It began trading in Lincoln with 74 members and grew over time. By 2011, when it celebrated its 150th birthday, the Society had around 296,000 members. The celebrations included special events, a renovated ‘birthday bus’, and an exhibition at The Museum of Lincolnshire Life. The Society also donated over half a million pounds to local good causes.

Main article: History of the cooperative movement

Trading

The Lincolnshire Co-operative runs many different types of shops and services. It has food stores where you can find locally made items like Lincolnshire Poacher cheese from Alford and Pipers Crisps from Brigg. They also have a coffee shop and pharmacies where you can get prescriptions and talk to pharmacists in private.

Lincolnshire Co-op offers funeral services and even has its own crematorium. They also have travel branches for booking holidays and other travel needs, along with post offices, filling stations, and a florist. The co-op owns several other businesses that help support its main services.