Small Things, Big Difference

A relatively small business compared to the ‘big guys’, but where small things can make a big difference. Here are just a few examples of the innovative initiatives that the East of England Co-operative have introduced:

• Co-op Guide to Dating: It’s not nice to get dumped: In 2017, the Co-operative became the first food retailer in the UK to sell food beyond its best before’ date in a bid to cut food waste 
• Sourced Locally: This long-term initiative was founded in 2007 following the discovery that South American asparagus was being sold in store mere miles away from fields full of the British crop. They took action, and after partnering with local farmers sold a staggering 33,000 bundles in the first season. Sourced Locally has gone from strength to strength, with the society now enjoying unique relationships with over 100 supplier partners who stock the stores with thousands of different products.
• Dementia Friends: In 2014, the society made a pledge to be the regions leading Dementia Friendly Retailer. They embarked on a programme of awareness-raising and training, amongst other activities, to change the way people think, act and talk about dementia. This has been recognised at a national level by the Better Society Awards. The East of England Co-op has since shared the training with other local groups and organisations, including the Ipswich Street Rangers and over 90 Cub Scouts.
• Community Cares Fund: In 2022 they awarded £200,000 to a diverse range of local groups focusing on everything from community action, food justice, heating hubs, mental health and wellbeing. In December 2022, with rising energy costs and huge demand on foodbanks predicted, they donated £100,000 to helping people in the region keep warm and fed.
• Your Co-op Live: A series of live interactive shows with expert speakers, special guests, educational videos, discussions, Q&A’s and attendee participation. Each show is themed around a number of interesting subjects including local foodbanks, reducing food waste, wellbeing, sourced locally producers, celebrating life and the various avenues of support available for those who need it.