A new Society, a new name – we would value your input

Dear Colleague,

As you will know, Members of both Midcounties Co-operative and Central Co-op have now voted in strong support of the proposal to create a new Society and we’ll be asking our Members to confirm this decision at our second Special Members’ Meeting on Tuesday 2 December.

Although our next steps will depend on the outcome of this vote, both Societies are preparing responsibly so that, should Members approve the proposal, we are ready to move forward as one Society.

One of the most exciting parts of this work is inviting you, our Members, to help shape the new legal name for the Society we may become together.

The name will be more than words on paper: it reflects who we are, what we stand for and the legacy we aim to build for the future.

How you can get involved

We are inviting Members of both Societies to share suggestions for the new legal name. You can do this by emailing Member.Communications@midcounties.coop by 5pm on 1 December.

If the proposal to create a new Society is formally approved, we will share a shortlist of the strongest suggestions and invite all Members to vote online for your preferred name.

Tips for suggesting a name

When thinking about a legal name, please consider the following:

• We are creating a new Society, so names referring to “Midcounties”, “Central” or historic trading names should be avoided.
• The legal name should allow the Society to grow across the UK and internationally, so avoid names with a regional identity.
• Consider names that reflect co-operative heritage and values, supporting a new chapter rooted in community, shared benefit and purpose.

Thank you for playing a meaningful part in shaping the next stage of our co-operative journey.

Phil Ponsonby, CEO, Midcounties Co-operative