New Prime Minister, Store Visits & Campaigning for Change

Our New Prime Minister

So, we now have our fifth Prime Minister in six years! As a business leader, I very much hope the political pantomime we have all witnessed this year is firmly behind us and we can settle with the fiscal and regulatory policies which will allow us to plan ahead and take the necessary action in playing our part in helping our colleagues, members and customers in facing the cost of living crisis.

 

Store Visits with Deborah Robinson – CEO of Central England Co-operative

Yesterday I had a great day out with Debbie Robinson, CEO at Central England Co-operative. We visited several of their stores to look at their recent upgrades and discuss the challenges and opportunities both Societies have ahead of us.

Myself (left), Jody Rowland, Orton Central England store manager (centre) & Debbie Robinson (right)

As our largest neighbour, the relationship with Central England is very important to us; colleagues may recall that in 2020 we took over their Travel business and last year we transferred our most of our Funeral Services operations to them.

 

The Co-operatives, Mutuals and Friendly Societies Bill

I was pleased earlier this week to sign a joint letter, alongside the CEOs of Coop Group, Co-operatives UK and Scotmid Co-op, to the Chancellor. The letter (click here to view) was in support of new legislation proposed in The Co-operatives, Mutuals and Friendly Societies Bill, which is due for a second reading in the House of Commons. It’s important that we continue to press to get legislation that allows us, as co-ops, a level playing field with other business models, on measures that allow for new types of investment, innovation and development. I look forward to seeing the progress of this for the benefit of the entire co-operative movement.

 

Get your Flu Jab with Your Co-op Pharmacy

 Myself (left) & Raj Patel (right)

On Wednesday I had my flu jab, which was very carefully administered by Superintendent Pharmacist Raj Patel, he’s been very busy so far and with reports of increased cases already I would recommend colleagues think about whether they should opt for this extra level of protection.

You can find out more about Your Co-op Pharmacy's Flu jab service, where they are hosting clinics and how to book by clicking here.

 

Poppy Appeal Begins

As we build towards Remembrance next month, yesterday marked the beginning of this year’s Poppy Appeal by The Royal British Legion (RBL), who are one of the main charities we support.

I hope you will all join me in paying tribute to those men and women who have served and sacrificed their lives, and those who continue to do so, to defend our nation. As a reminder, wherever you may be, all our sites and branches will observe the national 2-minute silence occurring at 11am on Friday 11th and Sunday 13th November.

You can learn more about this year’s Poppy Appeal by clicking here.

 

Black History Month Concludes

As we come to the end of the month, what a celebration of Black history it has been. From learning about the origins, to what we are doing within our groups, I want to thank Mandy Kaur, Latanya Allen and Julian Wilkins from the EmbRACE working group who have helped tell these powerful stories. As I mentioned in my blog a few weeks ago, it’s been great to read the group’s series of articles widening our learning and giving a greater understanding of the subject.

If you missed any of the stories from this month have a read below or if you wish to get involved, contact the team at embraceworkinggroup@midcounties.coop.

• Celebrating our Leaders & Pioneers – click here
• Modern Slavery & Sir Mo Farah’s story – click here
• The Rise of Black Women - click here
• How things can change – click here

 

Clocks Change This Weekend – Energy Saving Awareness

With leaves beginning to fall from trees, this weekend the clocks change on Sunday going back an hour. As we're continuing to raise awareness around Energy saving across our trading areas and support offices, I would like to say a thank you to all the colleagues helping out where they can. It is really making a difference, so don’t forget to adjust the time clocks in your sites. To find out more and save energy where you are click here.

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