The definition of a cooperative.
A co-operative is a business owned by its member-users. It
is created to provide services and products members need. A co-operative is a
democratic organization -- each member has a single vote, regardless of his/her
investment in the co-operative, or his/her purchases from the co-operative.
Members elect a board of directors from among themselves to
govern the co-operative. The board sets policies and hires a general manager to
run the day to day activities of the co-operative. The board meets regularly to
review operations and management reports.
Co-operatives uphold certain other principles including
voluntary and open membership, concern for community, educating the public and
youth about co-operative values, and autonomy.
CO-OP Régionale is proud to be a member of the Ontario Co-operative Association.