CO-OPERATIVE MOVEMENT

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 11, Issue 17, 16 April 1947, Page 8

CO-OPERATIVE MOVEMENT

A HISTORY OF PROGRESS PROSPECTIVE LOCAL BRANCH Until a few years ago there was practically only one Consumers’ Cooperative in New Zealand that at Runanga, on the West Coast. Beginning in a small way, just over 30 years ago, its history has been one of steady progress. Last year the turnover reached the new high level of £74,696 and a rebate was made of 1/6 in the poimd on goods purchased. Many people are under the impression that the Co-operative Movement is strong only in Government housing centres. This is not so. A glance at the Bulletin issued by the New Zealand Federation of Cooperatives, with headquarters at Palmerston North, gives some idea of the progress made. In the Hawke’s Bay district there are now seven shops in operation. There are ten Co-operative Societies in the Auckland district. Co-operatives are busy in Taumarunui, Bennydale, Mangakino, Hamilton, Waiuku, Te Aroha, There is also much activity in the South Island. ■

Perhaps the most interesting progress to be found is in State housing suburbs. The Hutt Valley Consumers Co-operative Society is supporting in practical fashion the establishment of' the Community Centre. It offers one-third of its annual distributable surpluses to the three Community entres of Epuni, Naenae and Taita, for as long as the financial needs of the Centres call for such subsiding. Tonight (April 16) the Dominion Organiser, Mr J. H. Churton will address a public meeting in the Caledonian Hall, King Street, when he will display a film on the subject. It is hoped that all interested will attend and make a decision as to whether a branch will be formed here. Lighting arrangements have been made and the meeting will commence at 7.30 p.m. to enable matters to be finalised before the lighting restrictions come into force at 10.30 p.m. P.B.A.