Cooperative Embraces Growth and Innovation
The cooperative recently announced successful financial results, showcasing continued growth and a commitment to community engagement. Turnover reached $44,284,489, marking an impressive increase of approximately $1.7 million compared to the previous period.
Over 888,000 transactions occurred during the 2023-2024 fiscal year, a testament to the cooperative’s integral role in the community. Investments totaling $243,145 were made to enhance both the Coop IGA Extra Store in Montmagny and Les Marchés Tradition de Cap-Saint-Ignace.
Investing in a Better Future
Improvements made to the Montmagny branch include a new checkout system and scales, hood work in the ready-to-eat department, and repairs to the brick facade. The Cap-Saint-Ignace location saw the purchase of a new oven and additional ovens, a new camera system, and the replacement of a compressor and evaporator. The installation of a heat pump further demonstrates a commitment to efficient, sustainable practices.
Supporting the Community
The cooperative is deeply committed to giving back to the community it serves, distributing $99,800 among more than 55 organizations.
“We receive between 10 to 20 sponsorship requests per week, and we respond positively to a very large number of them, as long as the request and the deadlines are reasonable,” shared General Director Francis Rouleau.
Sharing Success with Members
1.3% discount
A proposed rebate of 1.3%, amounting to $368,297, was unanimously approved by members, reflecting the cooperative’s commitment to sharing its success. This represents a notable increase from last year’s rebate of 1.15%, or $316,514. Attention was given to address the ongoing labor dispute at Canada Post, with members offered the option to pick up their vouchers on December 18 and 19 near the bistro in the Montmagny branch. All remaining envelopes will be mailed as soon as possible.
Modernization Promises Improved Efficiency
Restructuring of departments
During the meeting, a Sobeys representative detailed upcoming projects aimed at enhancing the grocery store experience. These projects, funded by the company up to $40,000 (an amount that wouldn’t exceed current branch modification budgets), include the implementation of electronic labels and the reorganization of shelves based on purchasing data. This data-driven approach draws insights from customers’ shopping habits collected across the Sobeys network.
Initial results from approximately 50 branches that have already implemented these changes are promising, according to the representative.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
New Leadership and a Youthful Perspective
Cristo परिवर्तन करते समय, बोर्ड में तीन निदेशकों के कार्यकाल का समापन हुआ. Paolo Paradis, the current president, Michel Ouellet, and Vincent Coulombe concluded their service. Two of these members, Paolo Paradis and Vincent Coulombe, renewed their candidacy and were elected to serve another three-year term. Michel Ouellet decided to step down after 12 years on the board of directors.
The application of Mélanie Morin was received, and as the number of nominations matched available seats, directors were elected by acclamation.
New general regulations were adopted, simplifying the board structure from eleven to nine members.
“We’re shrinking from eleven directors to nine because this was the current number, and it was becoming increasingly difficult to recruit volunteers for a board. We’ve also introduced new regulations that allow the council to recruit a young representative, allowing them to participate, but without the right to vote. This is
“This initiative aims to encourage younger people to get involved in a board of directors, so that they have greater ambition to ultimately become directors in the future,” explained Francis Rouleau.
What strategies does the cooperative employ to effectively communicate its financial performance and community impact to its members and the wider community? [1](https://jobs.paahq.com/interview-questions/cooperative-manager)
## Interview with General Director Francis Rouleau
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Mr. Rouleau. The cooperative recently announced strong financial results for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Could you tell us more about these positive figures?
**Francis Rouleau:** We’re thrilled to share that we reached a turnover of $44,284,489, which is an increase of $1.7 million compared to the previous year. This growth truly reflects the trust our community places in us and the dedication of our team.
**Interviewer:**
This success allowed you to invest back into the community. Can you elaborate on these community initiatives?
**Francis Rouleau:**
Absolutely. We firmly believe in supporting the organizations that make our community thrive. We distributed $99,800 to over 55 local organizations this year. We’re also committed to responding to sponsorship requests whenever possible, as long as they align with our values and timelines.
**Interviewer:**
The cooperative also made significant investments in improving your stores. Can you share some details about these improvements?
**Francis Rouleau:**
Yes, we invested $243,145 in enhancing both the Coop IGA Extra Store in Montmagny and Les Marchés Tradition de Cap-Saint-Ignace. We modernized equipment, upgraded facilities, and implemented sustainable practices like installing a heat pump at the Cap-Saint-Ignace location.
**Interviewer:**
You’ve also decided to share success with members through a 1.3% rebate. What can you tell us about this decision?
**Francis Rouleau:**
We want to ensure that our success directly benefits our members. This 1.3% rebate, amounting to $368,297, is a tangible example of our commitment to sharing profits with those who are integral to our cooperative. We’ve also worked around the ongoing Canada Post strike to ensure members can access their vouchers conveniently.
**Interviewer:**
what can we expect from the cooperative in the future?
**Francis Rouleau:**
We’re committed to continuous improvement and modernization. We will continue to invest in improving our stores, enhancing efficiency, and serving our community with the same dedication and passion.
**Interviewer:**
thank you for your time and insights, Mr. Rouleau.
