Calgary Co-op 50th Anniversary Publication

50 Years Proud...

And Growing

Locations & Services CALGARY CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION

Northwest Brentwood, 4122 Brentwood Road N.W. .........................................299-4311 Dalhousie, 5505 Shaganappi Trail N.W. ...........................................299-4331 Crowfoot, 35 Crowfoot Way N.W. ................................................... 299-5353

Hamptons, 1000 Hamptons Drive N.W. ........................................299-6711 Rocky Ridge, 11595 Rockyvalley Drive N.W.. ................................299-5450 Creekside, 12626 Symons Valley Road N.W. (Food centre opens in late 2006)

Northeast North Hill, 540 - 16 Avenue N.E. ....................................................299-4276 Beddington, 8220 Centre Street N.E. ............................................ 299-4445

Village Square, 2520 - 52 Street N.E. ................................................299-5332 Monterey Square, 2220 - 68 Street N.E. ........................................299-2600 Taradale, 6520 Falconridge Boulevard N.E. ....................................299-4012

Commemorative Magazine

50th Anniversary

Southwest Calgary Co-op Fast Facts ............................................... 1 Premier’s Message ........................................................ 2

Midtown Market, 1130 - 11 Avenue S.W. . ....................................... 299-4257 Richmond Road, 4940 Richmond Road S.W. ...............................299-4490 Oakridge, 2580 Southland Drive S.W. ............................................. 299-4355

Shawnessy, 250 Shawville Boulevard S.W. ...................................... 299-4426

Mayor’s Message .......................................................... 3

West Springs, 917 - 85 Street S.W.

Message from CEO & Board Chair ................................... 4

Southeast

Calgary Co-op: Today & Beyond ..................................... 6

Downtown Gas Bar, 1111 - 1 Street S.E. ........................................... 299-4257

Sarah Savill: Calgary Co-op’s No. 1 Co-operator ............... 7 How It All Began .......................................................... 7 Calgary Co-op Timeline: A Look Back .............................. 9 A Conversation with Gordon Barker ............................... 13 50 Years of Dedicated People ....................................... 14 50 Years of Exceptional Quality, Selection & Value ........... 18

(Food centre opens in late 2006)

Macleod Trail, 8818 Macleod Trail S.E. ............................................299-4292 Forest Lawn, 3330 - 17 Avenue S.E. ................................................. 299-4470

Deer Valley, 1221 Canyon Meadows Drive S.E. ...............................299-4350 South Trail Crossing, 4307 - 130 Avenue S.E. ................................... 257-7272 Eastfield Gas Bar, 5250 - 50 Avenue S.E. ........................................ 299-4444

Heritage Towne Centre Liquor Store, 76 Heritage Gate S.E. ........299-4335 Heritage Towne Centre Gas Bar, 6 Heritage Gate S.E. ................ 299-4334

Copperfield Gas Bar, 15566 McIver Blvd S.E. ................................. 299-4110

Airdrie

50 Years of the Products & Services You Need ................ 25

2700 Main Street ............................................................................... 912-3700

50 Years of Going Above & Beyond ............................... 32

Okotoks

50 Years of Co-operative Values ................................... 37

Gas Bar, #111, 31 Southridge Drive .................................................. 995-4573

50 Years of Corporate Responsibility.............................. 43

Strathmore

Without You... Where Would Calgary Co-op Be? .............. 49

Food Store, 320 Second Street .......................................................... 934-3121

Locations & Services ..............................Inside Back Cover

Gas Bar, 715 Wheatland Trail ........................................................... 934-3044

Head Office 2735 - 39 Avenue N.E, Calgary ............................ 219-6025 Gas Bar

Front Cover (foreground): Calgary Mayor Don MacKay and one of Calgary Co-op’s original employees cut the ribbon of the downtown centre in 1956. Little did they know the success that would be born from this first grand opening.

Front Cover (background): 50 years later, Calgary Co-op celebrates its golden anniversary. The original downtown centre is gone. A new flagship centre, the Midtown Market, is the new symbol of Calgary Co-op and its bright future.

Car Wash

Diesel

Travel Office

Liquor

•

Over 405,000 members.

•

20 food centres.

•

24 gas bars.

•

14 liquor stores.

•

11 travel offices.

•

$816 million in annual sales.

Over 405,000 members know what makes Calgary Co-op hard to beat...

•

Great employees who go the extra mile each and every day.

•

Above and beyond service including grocery bagging, carry out service, and Kiddies Korrals.

•

The Value Plus program with instant savings, Revved Up Rewards, and Value Plus Partners.

•

Innovative ideas that save time and money.

•

Unsurpassed quality and selection.

•

One-stop shopping for everything you need.

•

Employees who listen and truly care.

•

A solid history of environmental stewardship and leadership.

•

Commitment to community growth and well-being.

•

Democratic values and principles.

•

Patronage returns.

Calgary Co-op Fast Facts

In 2005, Calgary Co-op had...

“Our history is rich. Our future is bright.

Thanks to our loyal members and dedicated employees.”

Page 1 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Premier’s Message 50 years

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 2

Mayor’s Message Page 3 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

50 Years Proud...

Starting with one small store and 1,000 members, Calgary Co-op has grown to over 405,000 members, all of whom own shares in our growing co-operative. Calgary Co-op now boasts 20 food centres, 24 gas bars, 14 liquor stores and 11 travel offices. Assets have grown from $1,000 in 1956 to over $288 million in 2005, while sales

are

approaching

$816

million. Similar to the “little train that could”, Calgary Co-op continues to perform above and beyond the initial expectations of its earliest founders.

Today, as one of the largest employers

in

Calgary

with 3,600 employees, Calgary Co-op continues

In

to be the proud employer of thousands of people from the local community. More than just a store, November

1956,

the

doors

of

the first Calgary Co-op store opened, marking the start of a local success story that endures today.

likely someone you know, either knows someone who works or volunteers with Calgary Co-op today, or did so in the past. Not only do we contribute to the

Calgary and surrounding communities,

local economy by providing jobs, we

Calgary Co-op’s story really began in

thank our loyal members by sharing

1954 when a group of individuals began Alberta

our profits each year – a practice that is unique and defines us as a

Co-operative Wholesale Association retail

“co-op” built by and for the benefit of

store in Calgary, and forming their own co-

our members.

about

purchasing

the

op. They knew they would need to work together and pool their resources, and

years

heart of the community. You, and most

While 2006 marks 50 years of serving

talking

50

Calgary Co-op’s roots run deep in the

thus, the story of Calgary Co-op began.

Gordon

Barker,

one

of

the

founding

members behind the formation of Calgary Co-op fifty years ago, served as chair of

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 4

. And Growing Calgary Co-op for more than 30 years.

As Calgary Co-op celebrates its 50th year

Mr. Barker probably says it best. “Calgary

of operations, it remains steadfast in its

Co-op was formed by ordinary people who

resolve to serve its members, customers

wanted a business they could rely on when

and the greater community to the best of

others failed to provide them with the

its ability, never losing sight of its local

services they needed. We must never lose

roots and reason for being. Its history is

sight of why Calgary Co-op was formed – to

rich. Its future is bright.

serve its members and to be a contributing partner in the community.”

Thanks to you, Calgary Co-op is 50 Years Proud... And Growing. g

Ken McCullough Chief Executive Officer

Alex Ingram Board Chair

Page 5 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Today & Beyond

Calgary Co-op...

Calgary Co-op holds strong the belief that our success is a direct reflection of the loyal members and customers who shop at our stores, and the exceptional employees who work at Calgary Co-op. As a local company, this is an important competitive distinction and one that we are extremely proud to acknowledge and build upon for the future.

Ken McCullough Chief Executive Officer

Differentiating our services from those of our competitors always has, and will continue to, set us apart in the retail food marketplace. By concentrating our efforts on what we do best, and adapting to the changing needs of our members and customers, we can build upon the loyalty that has helped make Calgary Co-op one of the largest and most successful retail co-operatives in North America.

Calgary Co-op owes its 50 years of success to the long standing support of our loyal members and customers, and the dedication and commitment of our employees – past and present. As we celebrate our past, we are determined to be part of the strong future of the communities we serve, and will continue to work hard at being your first choice in products,

Copperfield gas bar team celebrate grand opening on December 9, 2005.

Midtown Market Butcher Shop.

services and locations.

50 years

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 6

Calgary Co-op’s Number One Co-operator

Sarah Savill

Some excerpts from Calgary Co-op: The First 25 Years, compiled by Rob and Nancy Millar in 1981, and published in celebration of Calgary Co-op’s 25th Anniversary, and from Calgary Co-op’s ‘Celebrating 40 Years’ publication.

S

arah Savill. More than Calgary Co-op Member

They not only survived,

No. 1, she is a fitting example of the pioneers

but prospered with a fairly

who founded your co-op.

large dairy operation. In

Even before joining Calgary Co-op, Sarah was no stranger to co-operatives. After all she grew up near Rochdale, England, the birthplace of modern co-operatives. Her family belonged to the local weaver’s co-op where their patronage returns came in the form of bolts of cloth.

was looking for investors, Sarah and her son Arthur each purchased $1,000 worth

of

shares

to

become Members No. 1 and 2 respectively.

Sarah moved to Canada with her husband and children in 1908. With little money and no farming experience, they settled in the Nose Creek area around Calgary and made the most of their new lives. Through much learning and hard work, the family did well in their new environment establishing themselves as an important part of local agriculture.

Sarah Savill passed away in 1963. The No. 1 membership was handed down to her youngest daughter, Nellie. Cutting the ribbon at the opening of the Beddington store in 1980, Nellie dedicated a great chunk of rock standing at the entrance of the shopping centre. A strange choice for a dedication? Not really. This particular rock was one of the many

In 1918, Sarah’s husband Walter passed away.

Sarah and her children continued to farm.

ack in B the bottom

1956 when the new co-op

How It All Began

that Nellie’s mother and father learned to work around in their early years in Canada. g

retail stores to the Alberta Co-operative Wholesale Association (ACWA) and, for

1956, a farmer wrote on

the next five years, the downtown store

of his $50 Calgary Co-

achieved

success

like

never

before.

op membership cheque, ‘FOR A LOST

Despite a flourishing business during

CAUSE.’ Fifty years later, thousands of

these years, members of the downtown

dedicated employees and hundreds of

store never received a patronage return.

thousands of loyal members couldn’t be

The downtown store’s profits were being

happier to have proven this prediction to

diverted to fund the ACWA’s other, less

be so wrong.

successful stores.

Calgary Co-op’s history really began in the 1940s when the United Farmers of Alberta (UFA) opened a co-operative grocery

store

in

downtown

Calgary.

While the UFA was skilled at meeting the needs of local farmers, success in the grocery business seemed a great deal more elusive. They had difficulty finding and keeping qualified managers. Money always seemed scarce.

In 1951, after several years of hard work, the UFA decided to sell all of its

Page 7 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

The lack of patronage returns was a detriment to the downtown store. After all, members joined the co-operative with the

Those founding principles were: • Membership shall be open to all.

prospect of receiving patronage returns

• Each member shall have one vote only,

a definite reality. Rather than becoming

no matter how many shares are owned.

frustrated and parting ways with the co-

• Money earned by the business shall

operative, a group of forward-thinking

be returned to the members in direct

pioneers decided their downtown store

proportion to the amount that member

should become independent, and that they

purchased from the business.

should operate the store themselves.

From 1954 to 1956, this dedicated group of people planned, strategized, raised money and garnered support for their venture.

Gordon Barker became Board Chair on June 25, 1956 and, in September 1956, the Calgary Co-operative Association’s dream of independence became a reality.

The Calgary Co-operative Association wrote a cheque to the ACWA for $58,000 and took over operations of the newly independent downtown store.

• Limited interest shall be paid on shares.

• Trading shall be on a cash basis only.

• Member education must be promoted.

• Political and religious neutrality must be maintained.

As times have changed, some of the principles such as trading on a cash basis only and paying limited interest on shares owned, have been modified to reflect the realities of a modern society. But the key principles – the overarching sentiments

The grand opening of Store No. 1 was held on November 15, 1956. It was a small affair. Even the local press declined to

– ring as true to Calgary Co-op now as they were in 1956, and will continue to guide Calgary Co-op into the future. g

attend. Calgary’s mayor at the time, Don MacKay, was present to cut the ribbon.

The 1,000th member joined that quiet day in November.

Members

of

adopted

the

Calgary

Co-op

principles

of

management modelled after the British Rochdale Co-op, which was established in 1844 and is noted as the first modern cooperative.

Rochdale

Co-op’s

founding principles remain at the heart of Calgary Co-op, and many other

50 years

consumer

co-operatives

around the world, today.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 8

Calgary Co-op Timeline: A Look Back

In 2006, Calgary Co-op turned fifty!

That’s a lot of years with a lot of history. Take a quick journey back in time and see how we did.

1963: Macleod Trail Centre opens.

1964: The book exchange program begins, netting $650 in donations in its first year.

1965: The Brentwood Centre opens to a huge crowd. Sales climb to $9.5 million, membership reaches 23,038 and the patronage return is 3.2 per cent.

1966: A 10-year milestone: Forest Lawn Centre is built; Kiddies Korrals are introduced.

1956: The Calgary Co-op journey begins at the downtown centre.

Initial membership totals 1,000, Gordon Barker is named Board Chair, and annual sales top $938,000.

1958: Membership climbs to 3,350.

Calgary Co-op purchases property next to the downtown centre for a service station.

1960: Calgary Co-op opens its second store, the North Hill Centre on 16th Avenue N.E. Membership grows to 5,525, sales reach $2 million and staff number 115.

1961: The North Hill Centre realizes $1.5 million in sales in its first 10 and a half months of operations. “This is an era of madness in merchandising,” one member is quoted as saying.

1969: The downtown centre receives a $500,000 makeover, re-opening in May. The 50,000th member receives a $25 dollar gift certificate, sales increase 20 per cent to $22.7 million and the patronage return is 3.6 per cent. Calgary Co-op secures 12 per cent of all Calgary retail food sales.

1970: Calgary Co-op purchases 7.6 hectares of land on Symons Valley Road N.W. for future development; the Macleod Trail Centre is renovated.

1971: The centre on Richmond Road and 49th Avenue S.W. opens for business.

1972: Calgary Co-op exceeds the $1 million mark for sales in one week.

Federated Co-op’s service centre on Meridian Road N.E. is purchased, becoming the Calgary Co-op HomeAgri Centre. Forest Lawn Centre undergoes a $500,000 expansion.

1962: The Calgary Labour Council wants to organize retail clerks and meat cutters. Following much debate, employees form their own union, the CALCO (Calgary Co-op) Club.

First Downtown Centre.

Page 9 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

1981: The 25th Anniversary. The Deer Valley Centre opens, offering customers their first experience with Universal Product Codes (UPC).

Evelyn Dawson (right) demonstrates new UPC system at AGM in 1980.

1973: Land is purchased for the Dalhousie and Oakridge centres. The first Calgary Co-op Travel office opens at the Macleod Trail Centre.

1974: A banner year, and a year of change!

Sales top $65 million, resulting in a 5.2 per cent patronage return. The Dalhousie Centre opens and the Macleod Trail Centre is expanded.

1975: Calgary Co-op secures 31 per cent of the total retail food market.

Sales rise 26 per cent to $77 million and membership grows to 101,000 making Calgary Co-op the largest consumer co-operative in North America by sales volume and membership.

1976: The Oakridge Centre opens.

1982: Calgary Co-op amalgamates with the Strathmore Co-operative, increasing its number of centres to 12. Sales reach almost $270 million – a 26 per cent increase, and the patronage return is 4.1 per cent.

1983: Calgary’s population drops but Calgary Co-op membership continues to grow, reaching 175,000. The Co-op Trust Fund for scholarships is established and “$1.49 Day” is introduced.

1984: The Crowfoot Centre opens, the first centre to open on Sunday. By the end of 1985, all centres would open on Sunday.

1985: Calgary Co-op seeks rental tenants for its centres to increase revenue. Sales top $373 million, membership rises to 259,000 and the patronage return is 3.8 per cent.

1986: Gordon Barker retires after 30 years as board chair. Calgary Co-op introduces generic products and seasonal garden centres.

1978: Calgary Co-op restructures and the position of general manager is replaced with a chief executive officer. The Village Square Centre opens, newspaper recycling is introduced and a storewide weekly sales record of $4 million is set in December.

1979: The Village Square Centre and the Home-Agri Centre are expanded. The patronage return hits an all time record of 5.4 per cent!

50 years

1980: The Beddington Centre opens and land is purchased for the Deer Valley Centre in the deep south and the Crowfoot Centre in the city’s northwest.

Crowfoot Centre Official Opening, August 1, 1984.

Mayor Ralph Klein, Gordon Barker host the celebration.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 10

Calgary Co-op overhauls its marketing strategies and fine-tunes operations.

1994: Union concerns result in a recordbreaking 2,619 members attending the annual general meeting. Calgary Co-op goes head-to-head with its competitors and comes out a winner. Sales rebound, and the patronage return climbs to 3.0 per cent.

Calgary Co-op’s oldest Auto Centre was demolished in September 1990 to make way for a new gas bar.

1988: Grocery wars reach an all-time high. Calgary Co-op has its first $10 million dollar week in sales.

1989: Calgary Co-op establishes a “friendship agreement” with Kobé Co-operative in Japan. A few years later when earthquakes ravage Japan, Calgary Co-op donates $5,000 to the Red Cross to aid residents of the area.

1990: Annual sales reach a half billion dollars. Membership grows to 297,267 with an average of 1,300 people joining each month. The oldest auto centre is demolished.

1991: A new Calgary Co-op logo that represents “family” is unveiled. The 300,000th member joins. Calgary Coop receives the Mayor’s Award for Environmental Awareness. Construction begins on the Shawnessy Centre.

1992: Calgary Co-op offices become smoke-free. At the 35th annual general meeting, members debate selling cigarettes, and decide it wasn’t Calgary Co-op’s place to determine what members can and cannot buy.

1995: The Monterey Square Centre opens. This small neighbourhood concept centre is the most energy efficient grocery store in western Canada. Calgary Co-op launches its award-winning, and extremely popular, Value Plus member reward program. Calgary Co-op is the first grocery store in Alberta to enter the liquor market with the opening of its Oakridge Liquor Store.

1996: Calgary Co-op’s head office moves to northeast Calgary. A large scale re-design of the Dalhousie Centre is completed.

1997: Fabulous 40! Calgary Co-op membership approaches 330,000. 1996 sales are close to $538 million (a 3 per cent increase over 1995) and the patronage return is 2.25 per cent. Kiddies Korrals remain popular and $1.49 Days draw tens of thousands of shoppers.

West Springs Liquor Store, November 2005.

1993: A challenging year. Competition forces prices to drop below cost and operating costs move upward. The patronage return is a record low of one per cent. Membership, however, continues to grow and reaches 314,078 by year end.

Page 11 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Groundbreaking, South Trail Crossing Centre, 1998. Left to right: Back – Rick Smith, Don Cihelka. Front – Alice Brown, Randy Kott, Hazel Corcoran, Barry Ashton.

2002:

Taradale Centre opens for business. Calgary Co-op opens new liquor stores in Strathmore and Forest Lawn, and a gas bar, convenience store and liquor store at Heritage Towne Centre in southeast Calgary.

2003: Calgary Co-op celebrates the groundbreaking for the new Midtown Market. The roof of the North Hill Centre collapses. Thankfully, no one was hurt, and the store re-opened in just 14 days!

Now that’s teamwork.

1998: Calgary Co-op becomes the first grocery store in North America to be accredited as a child-friendly place to shop. The Hamptons Centre opens.

1999: Membership reaches 350,000 members.

Market forces prompt significant organization restructuring to ensure continuing success.

2000: The Calgary Co-op web site, www.calgarycoop.com, is launched, and the Airdrie Centre opens.

2001: In 45 years of operations, the total patronage return exceeds $326 million.

Calgary Co-op sells the original downtown location and makes a conditional offer on land for the Midtown Market.

Macleod Trail Centre is demolished and replaced with a new food centre and shopping complex. Commercial cardlock petroleum facilities open in Cochrane, Eastfield and Strathmore.

Calgary Co-op pumps a record 4,138,000 litres of petroleum in one week.

50 years

2004: Calgary Co-op opens two new centres in a single year – the Midtown Market in September and the Rocky Ridge Centre in October. Sales top three quarters of a billion dollars!

2005: Membership closes in on the 400,000 mark as Calgary Co-op prepares for its 50 th anniversary. The future looks bright.

Calgary Co-op management (L-R: Ken McCullough, Wilf Harms, Colin MacKenzie and Paul Luft) and Barry Ashton cut the ribbon at the Midtown Market Liquor Store grand opening, October 2005.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 12

A Conversation with Gordon Barker Board Chair from 1956 to 1986 Gordon Barker

Continuing to discuss the Midtown Market and its fresh design and approach to service, Barker recalls that deli counters used to measure only about 20 feet in length. Of Calgary Co-op’s current deli counters measuring at least 150 feet, Barker

comments,

“The

new

bistro

concept is excellent. Calgary Co-op’s new deli counters allow Calgary Co-op to focus on delivering a wide assortment of fresh, top quality deli items.”

In Gordon Barker’s eyes, it’s attention to details like this that sets Calgary Co-op apart from the competition. Barker “The Midtown Market is a real winner.”

So says Gordon Barker when interviewed for Calgary Co-op’s

50th anniversary

celebrations. This sentiment is music to Calgary Co-op’s ears. It should be.

believes Calgary Co-op will survive the increasingly tough competition in food retail “because we listen to our members and

focus

on

providing

exceptional

customer service.”

Gordon Barker has seen and done it all

Barker’s thoughts on Calgary Co-op’s

when it comes to the growth and success

future plans are encouraging. “Expansion

of Calgary Co-op.

into Okotoks with a new gas bar and

As Board Chair from 1956 to 1986, Barker is not only a founder but a pioneer. He also acted as a guide through substantial change and expansion, a steady force through turbulent times, and a reminder of all that a co-operative is. After he retired, he found he missed the people at

convenience store is the right thing to do.

It’s good to see Calgary Co-op looking ahead and positioning itself very well for the future.” He believes board and management are doing a good job, and moving forward on the basis of what’s best for Calgary Co-op’s members.

Calgary Co-op the most. He still thinks of

“Keep it up and Calgary Co-op will continue

them often.

to be successful.”

Page 13 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Co-op Awards Night honours long service personnel, 1982.

Standing (l to r) W. Gordon Barker, Delores Goss, Helen Taylor, Margaret Stalker, Katherine Anderson, Ernest Heather, Stuart Job, Karl Kapcala, Dan McPherson, Paul Heine, Gerry Kiehl. Kneeling: Elaine Shaw, Margaret Miner, Violet Summers.

50 years of

50 years

Ed Kott, Board member (retired).

Dedicated People

Over the past 50 years, literally thousands

people who helped build this local success

of people have contributed to the success

story. We offer our deepest appreciation

of Calgary Co-op. While it is impossible

and

to feature all of the employees, board

employees, members, board of directors,

members and other volunteers who have

and volunteers – past and present. You

been a part of Calgary Co-op’s 50 year

are an important part of Calgary Co-op’s

journey, the photos on these pages may

history, and its future.

bring back dear memories of a few of the

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 14

thanks

to

all

Calgary

Co-op

2

1

3

4

6

7 5

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Karl Kapcala receives 40 year employee award, May 2006.

John Taylor, Operations Director (past).

Wally Pettam, Vice President Planning (past).

Dan Bruinooge, Vice President HR (past), welcomes Santa.

Jeannette Kirchner, Controller (past) and Darwin Flathers, Vice President. Jeannette retired in 2003, after 40 years.

6.

7.

Left to right: Ron Rooke, Assistant GM of the Calgary Cannons; Gail Fowler, Kids’ Help Phone; the Nestle Quik bunny; and presenting the cheque, Jorgan Laursen, past Co-op Grocery Marketing Manager.

30-Year Employee Service Awards: Hisae Dobashi, Jo Anne Rausch, Peggy Hultin, 2003.

Page 15 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

10 9

8

11

12

14

13

8.

50 years

Celebrating 30 years of service in 2004, L-R: Lyle Parrish, Wendy Lowe, Patrick Bulley.

9. 30-Year Employee Service Awards, Standing: Wayne Beschell, Dieter Krebsbach, Jerry Vian.

Seated: David Wilson, Vicki McPhedran, Greg Robertson.

10. Angela Teodoro celebrating 25 years of service in 2002.

11. Todd Maxwell, service clerk at Oakridge Centre and member of the Alberta Alpine Team at the 1996 Special Olympics, surrounded by supportive co-workers.

12. Calgary Co-op League shows true hockey spirit.

13. Stampede fun in 1992. Bandanas made out of Calgary Co-op plastic bags.

14. Retired Board member, Alice Brown, served Calgary Co-op for 26 years.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 16

15 17

16

19

18

20

21

23

22

24

15. Norm Bennie celebrating 35 years of service, 2005.

16. Richmond Road employee Patricia McCallum (left) and Board member Johanna Bates. Patricia was awarded a $1,500 bursary in 1998.

17. South Trail Crossing management team celebrates 50th anniversary logo contest winning design by Branka Burney (right) with 2nd and 3rd place prize winner, June Davidson (left).

18. F. James Williams, Director (past), 1991.

19. Celebrating 15 years of service in 1999.

20. Ruth Gabery and Patricia Rose celebrating 20 years of service in 2005.

21. 20-Year Employee Service Awards, 2003.

Rosemary Tuck, Bev Dagenais.

22. Harold Cook celebrating 35 years of service in 2003.

23. Gerald B. Kiehl, Chief Executive Officer from 1979 to 1993.

24. Calgary Co-op’s Consumer Counsellors (past) Marilyn Clark and Sue Spicer, 1989.

Page 17 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

50 years of

S

Exceptional Quality, Selection & Value

uccess in the Calgary marketplace is no easy feat. Fierce competition.

Savvy, price conscious consumers. Diverse markets and needs. What is the

recipe to success?

Over the decades Calgary Co-op seems to have found the right mix of ingredients.

Give consumers what they want – and more. Exceed expectations of quality, selection and value.

50 years

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 18

Quality Calgary Co-op’s dedication to quality is apparent in everything they do. No wonder the company has won so many awards in so many areas of its operations.

In 1993, Calgary Co-op noticed that the quality of their produce, while good, was not good enough, and took immediate action to remedy the situation. Partnering with Federated Co-operatives Limited, Calgary Co-op formed a new produce buying group

were

met

or

exceeded.

In

a

truly

co-operative fashion, The Produce People

called “The Produce People”.

worked not just for Calgary Co-op, but

This new subsidiary enabled Calgary Co-op

in Alberta.

for other co-operatives and independents

to better manage its produce quality and supply. Clear standards of quality were established and a stronger buying group with more clout ensured those standards

Attention to produce quality was taken one

step

further

in

2003

with

the

introduction of Ripe‘n’Ready fruit, a new label that means members and customers can find fresh, great tasting fruit yearround. Ripe‘n’Ready fruit is ripe before it is picked and shipped, and it is never exposed to temperatures between 35 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (known as the killing zone). Following these simple rules ensures the fruit has a longer shelf life and tastes fresher, so members and customers can enjoy a wider selection of great tasting fruit all year long.

The quality of produce before it reaches the shelves is critical, but not the only important factor. Once the produce is in our centres, how it is handled and managed also affects the quality of products members and customers see and purchase. It’s good to know that employees in Calgary Co-op’s produce departments are so well trained and some of the best in the business.

Page 19 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Fresh from Calgary Co-op’s University of Baking, Clark Stuparyk, Bakery Director (past), tests his new skills.

In the mid 1990s, Calgary Co-op’s produce

departments

went

up

against a field of 16,000 competitors across North America, and earned third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh places overall in a month long test involving 430 questions on fruits, vegetables, in-store personnel and efficiency. These impressive results illustrate the knowledge and skill of Calgary Co-op produce teams then – and now.

Produce

isn’t

the

only

area

where Calgary Co-op’s quality is unsurpassed. Take, for instance, the introduction of dry aged beef at the Midtown Market in 2005. Dry aged beef is something most of us expect at a fine restaurant. A treat on a special night out. Calgary Co-op felt its urban market might like to treat themselves at home – a hunch that was right on the money. Dry aged beef has been a popular addition to Calgary Co-op’s other quality meat products including Alberta Tender AAA 21-day aged beef, in-store made

sausages,

fresh

seafood,

poultry and more.

Bakery operations are constantly changing and improving in order to exceed the quality demanded by consumers. In early 2001, bakery operations underwent a major overhaul. New and larger bakery ovens enabled Calgary Co-op to offer a greater variety of fresh, top quality baked goods

50 years

to

members

and

customers.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 20

Calgary Co-op established the one-

and donated a custom-designed cake,

of-a-kind University of Baking to help

complete with a computer-generated

bakery

image of Mr. Brooks to help commemorate

employees

learn

the

finer

points of baking, sales and bakery

his special day.

operations management.

Selection

The result? A wide selection of mouth watering baked goods to suit most every taste. From artisan breads, Ciabatta and Foccacia, to innovative and healthy barley products, to your everyday bread, buns and bagels, Calgary Co-op’s bakeries have moved with confidence into the twenty-first century.

Test your Bread IQ Did you know you can test your bread knowledge on the Calgary Co-op web site with the Bread IQ Test, a fun and interactive way to learn about the wide variety of bread available at Calgary Co-op? Visit www.calgarycoop.com.

Calgary Co-op’s expanded bakeries also

The selection at Calgary Co-op reflects

cater to custom – often very special

the diversity of the growing and changing

–

anniversaries,

Calgary and area marketplace. It’s just one

weddings, and more. Calgary Co-op has

more reason why Calgary Co-op receives

a reputation for having some of the best

highest honours year after year in local

cakes in the city.

awards such as Calgary’s Child Magazine’s

requests.

Birthdays,

It’s not just how the cakes look and taste that sets the Calgary Co-op bakery team

Parents’ Choice Awards and the Calgary Herald’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

apart. It’s also the care and attention to

When

shopping

detail given to each custom order – and

members and customers can always find

to the person or people celebrating the

popular

special event. Take this one example of

name

Calgary

Co-op,

many. Long-time Calgary Co-op member

everything

David William Brooks celebrated his

diapers to dairy

100th birthday on January 15, 2002. The

to

Calgary Co-op South Trail bakery team

frozen

got wind of this extraordinary occasion

coconut milk.

brand

items

deli

at

for from

meats, peas

or

Page 21 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Along

with

all

the

major

brand names, members and customers

enjoy

Calgary

Co-op’s private label brands including Co-op Gold, Country Morning, and Harmonie. These proprietary

labels

provide

members and customers with more choice and selection – and offer great value.

Calgary Co-op remains on top of market trends and changing consumer attitudes. As the new millennium Co-op

dawned,

noticed

Calgary

people

were

wide selection of organic produce, meat,

becoming more health conscious and

bakery

increasingly concerned with how their

household items in many centres. The

food choices affected the environment. It

environmentally

also seemed people were staying home in

can even satisfy their craving for potato

greater numbers, content – even eager,

chips, ice cream or chocolate with a good

to experiment in the kitchen. Others

selection of organic options!

needed good food on the go to meet the demands of their busy lives.

items,

packaged

goods

concerned

and

consumer

Consumers with a taste for the unique and unusual are left more than satisfied

To meet these new consumer trends,

with

the

vast

range

of

ingredients

its

and prepared foods to choose from.

focus on organic and natural

For the ‘do-it-yourselfer’, international

Calgary

Co-op

foods cuisine.

and

increased

international

Today,

members

and customers can find a

ingredients galore grace the shelves to invigorate the senses and inspire the chef’s imagination.

For people on the go or those who like to experiment with international cuisine in an easier way, there’s a huge choice of

entrees

and

prepared

foods

from around the globe. Calgary Co-op’s delis boast a large selection fare

such

of as

delicious hummus,

bruschetta, fresh pasta,

50 years

tapenade and more.

“Fresh is our future.”

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 22

Don’t miss the sushi bar, woodstone pizza oven, Cheeses of the World and other Calgary Co-op exclusives for a quick meal that tastes great. At Calgary Co-op, it’s easy to savour a great night of fine dining from the comfort and convenience of your own home.

Value Calgary Co-op members and customers have always relied on good value. Value,

Perhaps

in fact, is one of the founding principles

recognizable

of Calgary Co-op. After all, one reason

at Calgary Co-op today is the

for the original members getting together

Value Plus Program started in 1995. It

was to pool their resources to gain greater

was designed to reward loyal members

purchasing

better

and to entice new ones. In its first six

value for all those who participate in the

weeks, Value Plus proved to be a huge

co-operative venture.

success

power

and

obtain

the

on

most program

both

fronts.

Long-time

members appreciated the extra savings, Over

the

years,

Calgary

Co-op

has

and new memberships skyrocketed from

remained true to its commitment to good

an average of 200 new members a week

value. Within an increasingly competitive

to an incredible 4,500 in the program’s

marketplace, Calgary Co-op continually

first four weeks.

explores new and innovative ways to offer members and customers excellent

The program began as a three tier

value without sacrificing quality, selection

system. Depending on the level of their

or service.

annual purchases, members received a bronze, silver or gold Value Plus Card

In 1992, Calgary Co-op met the big

that entitled them to instant savings of

box competition head on with quantity

five, ten or fifteen per cent, respectively,

discounts, case lot pricing, and family

on a wide variety of items.

packs in the meat department. $1.49 Day became $1.49 Week which, in 2003,

The Value Plus Program was an instant

became Gold Rush Days. Each change

success, but even the most successful

enabled a greater number of members to

programs need to be revisited to keep

participate in a larger selection of limited

them modern and relevant. In the years

time specials.

following its introduction, the Value Plus Program underwent many changes to

Page 23 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

make

the

program

better,

more

inclusive and easier to use. The first big change came in 1997 with the introduction of Revved Up Rewards.

With Revved Up Rewards, members receive

a

coupon

on

their

fuel

purchases at Calgary Co-op gas bars.

Coupons can be used towards grocery purchases and other items excluding tobacco, liquor and prescriptions.

2001 was perhaps the year of greatest change for the Value Plus Program. Tiers were eliminated and every Value Plus cardholder began to receive gold level discounts and benefits. Revved Up Rewards was also equalized with all members receiving 3¢ a litre towards their grocery purchases. This same year, Value Plus Partners were added to the program to enhance its overall value to Calgary Co-op members. Today, the Value Plus Program is as popular as ever, and continues to grow and change with the needs of members and customers.

Another innovative approach to offering exceptional value is the relatively new Value Priced Every Day program which offers shoppers low prices on hundreds of

products

every

day.

Warehouse

Weeks and the Calgary Co-op weekly flyer are some of the other ways Calgary Co-op ensures members and customers receive exceptional value all year long. g

50 years

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 24

50 years of

the products & services you need

Changing with member needs and market forces

In fifty years, Calgary Co-op has seen

and done a lot. But, one thing has never changed; its ability to provide members with the products and services they need, all under one roof. As member needs changed, so too have its products and services.

In

the

first

few

years

of

operations,

product offerings included animal feed, farm machinery and a range of fresh and packaged grocery items. This made sense at the time seeing as much of the membership were farmers. As the city grew, Calgary Co-op’s membership became more urban and diverse. Their needs were different from the needs of the original members. So, gradually, Calgary Co-op modified its business and updated the products and services it offered.

Page 25 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

By the time Calgary Co-op celebrated

Home

its twenty-fifth anniversary, it looked a

to six centres in 1987 and, in 1992,

great deal different than when it started.

Calgary

Services

hardware,

furnishings business altogether. The

clothing and dry goods, pharmaceuticals,

prefabrication plant closed in 1992,

home

and, in 1994, the size of the hardware,

included furnishings

automotive

food, and

home

was reduced. Hardware and apparel

major shopping centres each with a full

were eventually eliminated and the

service automotive centre, a home-agri

Home Centre was closed.

were

Co-op Travel Limited.

These hard choices and difficult actions enabled Calgary Co-op to focus on a

Of course, over the next twenty-five

select number of products and services.

years, the city’s population exploded,

A focus that has paid off with today’s

attracting

Calgary Co-op departments excelling at

new

competitors

into

the

prosperous marketplace. Big box home

practically everything they do.

1982: Members could shop at Calgary Co-op to furnish their entire home.

1991: Calgary Co-op’s home centre could help plan and build your dream kitchen. The home centre even offered whole house packages including blue prints!

To the right: A Calgary Co-op display kitchen from 1992.

renovation stores moved in. New players in the clothing and furniture business – from niche boutiques to large scale operations – offered a selection the likes of which had never been seen before. With all these changes taking place, Calgary Co-op evaluated its business model and made some progressive decisions on how to best move forward.

years

the

10

There

centre and prefabrication plant, and

50

exited

centralized

apparel and dry goods departments

supplies.

building

Co-op

was

and

agricultural

services,

appliances,

furnishings

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 26

Pharmacies Calgary Co-op’s first

pharmacy

opened

at

the

Brentwood Centre in 1965. S i n c e then, Calgary Co-op pharmacies have built a solid reputation of innovation and exemplary service.

Calgary Co-op Products & Services Today

In January 1990, pharmacy operations

Groceries and General Merchandise

to

Calgary Co-op members enjoy a full range of some of the best grocery items available. With a focus on freshness and quality, Calgary Co-op’s produce, meat and bakery items satisfy even the most selective palate. Add to the fresh selection a diverse variety of packaged and prepared foods, including a wide variety of international items, and it’s no wonder so many people rely on Calgary Co-op to feed their families.

Calgary

Co-op

convenience;

is

also

one-stop

all

became the first in North America interface

their

computerized

pill

dispenser with a personal computer. This may sound like common sense today, but back then, it was a progressive decision that increased efficiency and improved

customer

service.

Other

innovations such as the installation of Simplicity Plus pharmaceutical software and robotics in 2001 have kept Calgary Co-op pharmacies at the leading edge of health and wellness solutions in the community.

about

shopping

if

you will. Each centre has a full service pharmacy and offers a selection of health and beauty products. Centres also offer lottery outlets, photofinishing, floral, candle shops, greeting cards and stationery, among other services that

enable

members

to

check

off

everything on their shopping list all at one location. Many centres offer even more convenience with additional services, including travel, gas bars and liquor stores.

Oakridge Pharmacy Manager (past) Darlene Huber enjoys the convenience of Baker cells, 1989.

Page 27 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Calgary

Co-op

committed

to

pharmacists a

healthy

are

also

community.

Each year, Calgary Co-op pharmacies Dianna Wojcik, Pharmacist.

provide health clinics on such topics as osteoporosis, diabetes, cholesterol and asthma, to name a few. Annually, Calgary Co-op holds a series of flu shot clinics where thousands of people receive their yearly inoculation from registered nurses from the Calgary Health Region.

Calgary Co-op pharmacies also work with the Calgary Health Region to help Calgary Co-op pharmacists strive do more

nurture a healthier community. In 2003,

than simply fill prescriptions. After all, a

Calgary Co-op partnered with the Calgary

well-informed consumer is more likely

Health Region and Redpoint Media Group

to be a healthier consumer. Because of

to offer the bimonthly Apple magazine,

this strong sense of responsibility to

a publication dedicated to healthy living

their members and customers, Calgary

and illness prevention. One year later,

Co-op pharmacists introduced the Care+

Calgary

Co-op

Pharmacy program in 2000. This program

into

exclusive

helps people better manage their health

the Calgary Health Region and Health

and wellness with:

Unlimited Television to launch a new

•

no cost counselling regarding their prescriptions,

•

a Care+ Report with drug information including side effects and drug conflicts provided with every prescription,

•

Care+ packaging – prescription drug blister packing – that helps members and customers manage and track their daily medication requirements conveniently and accurately.

Calgary Co-op pharmacy services also

available

arrangement

with

in

local

medical

facilities,

provides patients and new parents with helpful pharmaceutical information before they leave the hospital.

Calgary Co-op pharmacies, including a wide selection of

health

and

beauty

products and many natural and organic selections, can be found at all Calgary Co-op food centres.

access to drug information, an in-store blood pressure machine and a complete range of non-prescription health and

years

entered

service called HUTV. The HUTV channel,

include health-care videos for loan, online

50

an

pharmacists

beauty products.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 28

Calgary Co-op Travel Members and customers have come to know Calgary Co-op Travel as a friendly and reliable place for all their travel needs. In 2005, Calgary

Co-op

Travel

was

voted

Best Travel Agency in the

Calgary

Readers’

Herald Choice

Awards, an honour the travel agency was especially proud to receive.

The history of Calgary Co-op Travel is an interesting one. Calgary Co-op first offered travel services in the late 1960s through the public relations department.

Members could book a select number of chartered flights from Calgary to Honolulu, Frankfurt, London, and Amsterdam on Pacific Western 737s. In 1973, the Board decided that Calgary Co-op should operate a full service travel agency. One year later, the first Calgary Co-op Travel office opened at the Macleod Trail Centre, and remained a wholly-owned subsidiary of Calgary Co-op until 1985, when it became a travel department of Calgary Co-op – a place the Calgary Co-op Travel “Dream Team” proudly occupies today.

Calgary Co-op Travel is available to serve the travel needs of members and customers in so many ways.

Convenient travel offices offer personalized travel consultation in a comfortable sit-down environment.

Members and customers can access the same personalized travel services at their convenience through the Calgary Co-op Travel Call Centre and online booking at www.calgarycoop.com.

Calgary Co-op Travel experts can help with all travel arrangements whether for business or pleasure.

In addition to the standard travel fare, Calgary Co-op Travel is known for its one-of-a-kind travel opportunities not found anywhere else, including the annual Calgary Co-op Travel Anniversary Cruise and the Destinations program.

Page 29 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Gas Bars

After four decades of operating full service

As Calgary and area has grown, so has people’s love and dependence on cars, trucks, SUVs and anything else with wheels and a motor. Every year since 1958, Calgary Co-op has been there, helping local vehicle owners keep their motors running.

For

four

operated with

In 1997, Calgary Co-op left the vehicle repair business to focus on more efficient and convenient gas bars. Of course, change didn’t end there. The gas bar business has grown and changed over the last few years with ‘split service’, giving customers a choice between full and self

decades, full

auto centres, big changes were afoot.

service

complete

Co-op

serve, touchless car wash operations

centres

with high tech vehicle guidance systems

facilities.

offering a hassle-free and gentle scrub,

Calgary auto

repair

its

and the convenience of Pay at the Pump

share of change. In 1974, Calgary

and passing lanes to help customers get

Co-op

on their way faster.

This

period hired

attendants,

wasn’t its

first

a

move

applauded

by

upon

some

by

without female

pump

that

was

many,

but

more

frowned traditional

members. In October 1990, Calgary Co-op

gas

bars

discontinued

the

sale of leaded gas – two full months before the government deadline to do

In 2001, Calgary Co-op opened its first cardlock gas bar in Cochrane, enabling commercial and agricultural members access to fuel 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Two more cardlocks have since opened in Strathmore and Calgary.

so. Despite many changes over the decades, service continues to be second to none, with Calgary Co-op gas bars offering full service at self serve prices

50 years

despite

heavy

competition.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 30

Today, Calgary Co-op operates 24 gas bar locations including three cardlock operations.

Calgary

Co-op

gas

bars

continue to offer great value for members and customers. Fuel purchases have always gone towards members’ patronage return and with the introduction of Revved Up Rewards in 1997, fueling at Calgary Co-op gas bars is better than ever.

appreciate. Calgary Co-op was the first grocery store in Calgary to open a liquor outlet at its Oakridge location in 1995.

Today, Calgary Co-op operates fourteen liquor stores.

Liquor Stores

While our quest to offer liquor was

When the Alberta government privatized

filled with red tape, the venture has

the liquor industry in 1993, Calgary Co-op

ultimately proven a great success. It’s

saw a superb opportunity to add another

no surprise, really. The time-saving

service to improve the one-stop shopping

convenience of shopping for groceries,

convenience members and customers

then purchasing liquor right next door, just made good sense. g

Remo Marcuccui, Liquor Manager (left) and John Hagen (right).

Page 31 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Every year, employees nominated for their outstanding service are proud Calgary Co-op ambassadors at the White Hatter awards.

50 years

of going above & beyond T

People – Above & Beyond

The Legend Lives On

he employees at Calgary Co-op are a large

part of the Calgary Co-op advantage. Their commitment and dedication is second to none.

Proof of their commitment can be found in almost every issue of Co-op News where long-term service is recognized. Issue after issue lists employees who have been with Calgary Co-op for 10, 20, 30 years – sometimes even longer.

These

outstanding

employees

take

it

upon

themselves each and every day to exceed the expectations of members and customers. Often times, Calgary Co-op employees are nominated for Calgary’s White Hatter annual awards for their outstanding service.

In the mid 1990s, Calgary Co-op celebrated its workforce with the ‘Legend Lives On’ contest.

Members were encouraged to submit anecdotes about outstanding Calgary Co-op employees who gave top quality performance.

50 years

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 32

Spring 1997 – Congratulations to Deer Valley Centre employee Terry L’Amarca, who was nominated by Marion McDougall.

A Calgary Co-op member since 1981, Mrs. McDougall sends thanks to her “Guardian Angel”. On Christmas Eve, her wallet was stolen during a last-minute shopping trip.

“I was in a panic, unable to pay for the dinner necessities in my buggy!” she wrote.

A fellow shopper offered to loan some cash when “Terry appeared and thanked her, but kindly said my groceries would be taken care of.” Terry calmed Marion’s fears and within 10 minutes, all important credit cards were cancelled. “This thoughtfulness overshadowed the monetary loss and made me realize ‘it’s a wonderful life, after all.”

Both Terry and Mrs. McDougall received $50 Calgary Co-op gift certificates.

Winter 1996 – Congratulations to Macleod Trail Centre employee Debbie Piwin, who was nominated for the Legend Lives On contest

by Dorothy MacLachlan. A Calgary Co-op member since 1972, Mrs. MacLachlan was hampered by a problem knee which she says impairs her ability to walk. “Debbie noticed my stressful progress and quickly came to my rescue, took my arm and led me into the store,” writes Mrs. MacLachlan. “She thoughtfully volunteered to pick up the items I needed and assisted me back to my car.

Debbie truly is a Value Plus employee.” Both Debbie and Mrs. MacLachlan received $50 Calgary Co-op gift certificates. g

Ready. Set. Wrap!

Team spirit in action. The fun begins at the 1990 Wrap-a-Rama.

What do you get when you combine

Sure, the annual Wrap-a-Rama was full

learning, fun and spirited competition? At

of laughs, cheers and excitement. But

Calgary Co-op you get an event that was

the competitions were more than just

once known as the Wrap-a-Rama.

a good time. Wrap-a-Rama was also an

Each year from the mid 1980s to the early 1990s, Calgary Co-op employees took

friendly

competition

and

team

spirit to new heights. When the Wrap-aRama wrapped up in 1990, over 1,200 employees – well over one third of all

effective way for employees to hone their bagging skills. Refining and reinforcing these important skills enabled Calgary Co-op to continue to stand out from the crowd when it came to fast, friendly, high quality service at the checkout.

Calgary Co-op staff – participated in this

Wrap-a-Rama wrapped up in 1990, a victim

fun-filled contest.

of its own success. Competitions, held

Wrap-a-Rama events emphasized speedy and careful packing of food into shopping bags. Each centre held a skills competition to discover the centre’s best wrapper.

Each centre’s winner then competed

during business hours, began disrupting centre operations, and so the competitions ended. But the Calgary Co-op tradition of team spirit, life-long learning and top notch service lives on! g

against the best wrappers from other centres until it was down to the finals – the centre’s best wrappers. Wrap-a-Rama finals were loads of fun with each centre organizing

cheerleaders

to

cheer

on

their contestant. Teams made costumes, painted their faces, and had a hootin’, hollerin’ good time.

Calgary Co-op’s best bagger in 1990.

Tracy Thomas from Deer Valley Centre with Bruno Friesen, Board Chair (past).

Page 33 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Extras – Above & Beyond While most people like to call some of the services at Calgary Co-op little extras, people who know Calgary Co-op well know employees wouldn’t have it any other way.

Kiddies Korrals Kiddies

Korrals

became

a

staple

of

Calgary Co-op centres in the mid 1960s.

A service not offered by any competitor, our Kiddies Korrals provide a safe, fun place for children to play while their parents shop. An average of forty to fifty children visit Calgary Co-op Kiddies Korrals each day. During major sales events, Korral employees may care for up to 100 children in a single day. A task that each employee takes very seriously.

50 years

Co-op was the only business in the province given an award for ‘its business effort that focuses on families’. In 1998, Calgary Co-op became the first grocery store in North America to be accredited as a child friendly place to shop. Criteria included physical store layout, safety for children, educational programs and amenities for

Calgary Co-op’s commitment to families

families. By 2005, Calgary Co-op had

hasn’t gone without notice. In 1994,

received the child-friendly designation

Alberta’s ‘Year of the Family’, Calgary

eight years in a row... and counting.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 34

Grocery carry out... and more Since

the

beginning,

Calgary

Co-op employees have always bagged groceries

and

provided

carry

out

service right to members’ vehicles.

In November 1993, Calgary Co-op experimented with a new program called the Ultimate Shopping Service (USS) where Calgary Co-op employees would do the shopping for you. For a small fee of $3.95, members could order by fax or phone and have their purchase ready for pickup. For an extra $5, members could have their grocery order delivered right to their door. This service was the precursor to Calgary Co-op’s popular online shopping service of today, Pic’n’Del. grocery store in Alberta to integrate

Free, supervised childcare makes shopping more fun for youngsters.

Innovation – Above & Beyond

computerized weigh scales in bulk food

Innovation is an important part of Calgary

reusable plastic containers to transport

Co-op’s

produce, decrease handling of produce,

record

of

success.

aisles and was the first store in western Canada

Calgary

Co-op has had many ‘firsts’ in the area of innovation, each time in an effort to improve service or increase convenience.

to

start

using

collapsible,

and reduce waste.

1993 was a year of much technological advancement leading to better customer

Universal Product Code (UPC) scanning

service and greater convenience. Interac

was introduced at the Deer Valley Centre

Direct

in the fall of 1981. At the time, this new

Calgary Co-op began accepting credit

technology

card payment for all purchases including

promised

‘speedier,

more

pleasant shopping with fewer line ups and checkout delays, ease of re-ordering and statistical surveying, fewer errors and more efficiency’. By 1984, most centres had adopted this innovative, time and cost saving technology.

Payment

was

introduced

and

food items.

In the fall of 1997, Calgary Co-op became the first food retailer in Canada to

offer

checkout

Easy

Shop,

alternative

a

convenient

that

enabled

members to scan their own groceries.

In 1990, Calgary Co-op was the first

Page 35 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

This service innovation was replaced with SelfScan, launched in 2002 at the Macleod Trail and South Trail centres.

Calgary Co-op members got their first taste of online grocery shopping with the introduction of Pic’n’Del in the spring of

2003. The Pic’n’Del service enables Calgary Co-op members to purchase items online and have them delivered right

to

their

door.

Calgary

Co-op’s

exclusive agreement with Canada’s fastest growing online grocery shopping service made Calgary Co-op the first grocery store in Calgary to offer such convenience to its

50 years

Francis Tso, Information Services, checks IT program at Customer Service.

members and customers. g

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 36

50 years

24th annual general meeting, 1981.

of

co-operative values Page 37 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Democracy

he role of the Calgary Co-op Board of T Directors has evolved over the years. In The Board of Directors

the beginning, members of the Board did pretty much everything. Everyone was just learning how to run a co-operative so lines blurred and were often crossed.

It was common to see Board members doing price checks, scrubbing floors or selling memberships. On the other hand, it was just as common to see management taking an active role in policy making, a task which was the responsibility of the Board of Directors at the time.

In

1974,

Calgary

Co-op

began

the

The Patronage Return Advantage

used to working alongside management.

here are so many qualities that make T Calgary Co-op stand out in the competitive

1978 was a turbulent year with the Board

marketplace. Perhaps one quality that stands

deciding it was in the best interests

above the rest is what members like to call

process of more clearly defining the roles of Board and management. It was not an easy task with Board members so

of Calgary Co-op to restructure upper management. The position of general manager would be phased out; replaced

The Patronage Return Advantage Every year since its inception, Calgary Co-op has shared profits with its loyal members through patronage returns. During good times and in challenging years alike, the Calgary Co-op Board of Directors has declared a patronage return. Returns have ranged from one per cent in 1993 to 5.45 per cent in 1979 to 2.35 per cent in 2005.

Since 1957, Calgary Co-op members have received over $430 million in patronage returns over the years.

2006 - 2007 Board of Directors

50 years

Back Row L-R: Stuart Cantrill, Vice Chair; Alex Ingram, Chair; Barry Ashton; Peter Stacey-Salmon; Randy Kott.

Front Row L-R: Lisa Wise; Colleen Hillaby; Johanna Bates; Terry Geib, Secretary.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 38

Patronage returns. Just one of the many ways Calgary Co-op benefits its members.

Just one of the many advantages Calgary Co-op members can count on. g

with the position of chief executive officer

approved a resolution against the GST.

who would be responsible for operations

Despite the objections of Calgary Co-op

and development. The Board would be

and many others around the country, the

responsible for governance.

federal government introduced the GST on

That was the beginning of the move

January 1, 1991.

toward the Calgary Co-op organization

As the city grew and people’s lives

of today where the elected Board is

changed,

responsible for governance, focused on

the

the principles guiding the organization

development concerned the Board as the

rather than on day-to-day operations.

democratic process is integral to being

Acting on behalf of members, the Board

a co-operative. To encourage voting in

reviews and approves policies, monitors

greater numbers, the Board introduced

progress

advanced polling the week before the

and

safeguards

Calgary

Co-op’s assets.

fewer

annual

members

general

attended

meetings.

This

annual general meeting at all Calgary Co-op centres. In 2004, Calgary Co-op

The Annual General Meeting

added the option of voting by mail ballot.

Calgary Co-op’s annual general meetings

Response to this new, more convenient

are a forum for member involvement.

method of voting was overwhelming with

Each year, members are invited to attend

over 3,800 members casting ballots – the

the annual general meeting. They also

most ever in a director election. Because

participate in the director elections each

of its popularity, voting in the 2006

year and vote on resolutions that may set

director elections was done exclusively

the future direction of the organization.

by mail ballot.

Over the years, Calgary Co-op’s annual

Environmental awareness booth at the 1990 annual general meeting. Marilyn Clark, Calgary Co-op Home Economist (past) with a guest.

general

meetings

have

been

the

setting for some interesting democratic discussions. members

For

voted

instance, on

a

in

1964,

resolution

to

ban the sale of cigarettes. For the majority, this was going too far. Calgary Co-op couldn’t dictate what its members could or could not purchase. In 1972, members

debated

whether

Calgary

Co-op should sell colour toilet paper, because

it

was

a

pollutant.

Again,

members decided by a majority vote that this was exercising too much control. On a more serious note, at the 1990 annual general meeting, members overwhelming

Page 39 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Seniors’ Day at Heritage Park, September 29, 1997.

hard work and commitment have helped make Calgary Co-op what it is today. Many senior members have remained loyal to Calgary Co-op through thick and thin, taking each challenge and opportunity in stride.

Each year, Calgary Co-op hosts Seniors’ Day to thank senior members for their continued dedication. Today, this popular annual event, often attended by over 1,500 senior members, includes lunch and a fun-filled afternoon of activities at

Participation In

addition

to

Heritage Park. attending

Calgary

Kids Club

Co-op annual general meetings, members are encouraged to become involved in

Getting

young

people

involved

many different ways.

excited about Calgary Co-op is a sure way to achieve continuing success.

The Member Relations Committee

To that end, the Kids Club was

The mandate of the Calgary Co-op Member

Relations

Committee,

a

committee consisting of Board members and members at large, is to educate members

about

co-operatives

and

specifically Calgary Co-op. In addition to this primary function, the Member Relations Committee acts as a conduit for

member

concerns,

assists

the

Board of Directors in staying in touch

launched in December of 2000.

Over 500 kids and their families came out to enjoy the first event – a skating party at Max Bell Arena. The skating party was the first of many outings and activities in this growing

Kids

which now numbers over 42,000.

with members, acts as ambassadors of Calgary Co-op to members, and assists

the

Board

in

encouraging

member interest and involvement in the democratic process.

Seniors’ Day Calgary Co-op is proud to recognize the important contributions senior members have made over the years. Their loyalty,

50 years

Club,

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 40

oo

ar

Co

p -o

and

time to come up with a Kids Club mascot.

Kids Club members submitted 667 entries for the mascot contest. The winning entry, Co-oparoo, was introduced as the new Kids Club mascot in 2001. This lovable kangaroo was born from the imagination of Kids Club member Andrew Wettlauer.

Calgary

Co-op

has

kept

Co-oparoo hopping over the years with her participation in everything from grand openings to Stampede breakfasts to Kids Club events and more.

Consumer Courses & Health and Wellness Clinics Consumer courses and clinics have been a mainstay of the Calgary Co-op advantage over the decades. Popular well into the 1980s when it was common for over 3,000 members to attend consumer courses in a single year, courses included such diverse topics as lawn care, canning, financial management, car care, and barbequing.

Today, Calgary Co-op focuses its consumer clinics on health and wellness issues including heart health,

diabetes,

osteoporosis,

and other health-related topics. In 2003, Calgary Co-op held the Whole Health Challenge to encourage members to adopt healthier lifestyles. Over 600

Awards & Recognition

Kids really got involved when it came

Calgary’s Child Magazine Parents’ Choice Awards: Best Grocery Store every year since 1997. Also placed well in other categories including: Travel, Pharmacy, and Best Birthday Cakes.

In 1998, first grocery store to be accredited as a child friendly place to shop. Received the same accreditation every year since.

Calgary Herald Readers’ Choice Awards: Best Grocery Store, Best Travel Agency, Best Deli, Best Liquor Store; Silver awarded in the Wine Store and Bakery categories; Bronze awarded in the Drug Store category.

The City of Calgary Corporate Environmental Awareness Award, 1991.

Rs for Excellence Award from the Alberta Recycling Council, 2002.

Environmental Achievement Award - Corporate 2003, Calgary Awards.

Work Safe Alberta – one of Alberta’s Best Safety Performers in 2004.

Most Respected Corporations in Alberta, 2005 and 2006 polls conducted

by Alberta Venture Magazine.

Calgary Emergency Medical Services 2002 Community Appreciation Award for Project Smile.

Recognized by Natural Resources Canada for participating in the Office of Energy Efficiency “Energy Innovator’s Initiative.”

Consumers’ Choice Awards 2005: First Place, Supermarket Category. g

people took part in the challenge which provided participants with information and a program for healthier living. The winner, Scott Smith, lost 49 pounds.

Page 41 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Communication Open

communication

is

one

of

the

cornerstones of a successful co-operative.

As such, communication and information distribution has always been important to Calgary Co-op. Methods have evolved over

the

years

and

have

included

information nights, television advertising, questionnaires,

focus

groups

and

consumer clinics. Some have succeeded, some have not. Time and time again, Calgary Co-op has determined that the

expensive and enabled Calgary Co-op to

newsletter is one of the most effective

reach a wider audience that included both

ways to communicate with members.

members and potential members.

The first newsletter, distributed in 1958,

In April 1990, Calgary Co-op launched

started off as a letter from the general

This Week at Co-op, a weekly publication

manager. It took six years for the next

delivered

newsletter to be published with Volume

household. It featured advertising and

1, number 1 of Co-op News issued in

editorial

January 1964.

concerns, nutrition, news, and recipes.

In 1988, Calgary Co-op began delivery

The internet offered a new and innovative

of Co-op News using Canada Post’s

way for Calgary Co-op to communicate

unaddressed AdMail service. It was less

with

to

almost

content

members

on

and

every

Calgary

environmental

customers.

On

August 15, 2000, Calgary Co-op entered the internet age with the launch of its web

site,

www.calgarycoop.com.

In

September 2004, a newly revamped web site with enhanced features and

years

travel booking was unveiled. g

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 42

Calgary Co-op’s redesigned web site, launched September 2004.

50

Volume 1, number 1 of Co-op News, issued January 1964.

interactivity including Pic’n’Del and online

50 years of Corporate

2005 Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic.

G iving through

responsibility back

donations,

to

the

community

sponsorships

Calgary Co-op adopted the IMAGINE policy

and

of donating at least one per cent of pre-

participation in events has always been

tax profits back to the community in 1992

a large part of what Calgary Co-op is

– three full years before the IMAGINE

all about. Their commitment to the

policy was developed! Today, Calgary

community stretches far and wide, and

Co-op contributes between $1.5 and $2

includes not just the people, but also the

million in cash, in-kind and food donations

environment in which we all live.

to deserving organizations each year, and

Calgary Co-op is a proactive participant in the community’s well-being. Nothing illustrates this better than the fact that

is recognized as an “Alberta’s Promise” company for its community giving and support for children’s programs.

Page 43 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

Giving Back & Helping Out Book Exchange and Paper Recycling Program

every three months! The Bags to Riches program added a charitable element to

in vogue, Calgary Co-op sensed there was something not quite right with all the ‘waste’ being sent to the landfill. In 1964, Calgary Co-op started the Book Exchange and Paper Recycling programs.

These programs have diverted thousands of books and paper from local garbage bins and raised hundreds of thousands of

program,

enabling

members to designate the 3¢ per bag (6¢ per hard sack) credit to charity. Calgary Co-op employees designate four

charities

each

year to receive Bags to Riches donations.

Charity Golf Classic Back Row L-R: Donna Burn, Lyle Parrish, Don McConkey, Larry Walter.

Front Row: L-R: Karen Deadmarsh, Audrey Flegel, Elaine Smith, Kim Longmuir.

Long before environmental concerns were

the

dollars for good causes. Over the years, monies raised through these programs have gone to such worthy causes as Handi Bus, furnishings at a seniors’ residence, a fridge for an emergency shelter, start-up money for co-ops in developing nations, and donations to local charities.

Bags to Riches In

November

1991,

Calgary

Co-op

introduced the Bags to Riches program, another initiative to benefit people in the community, and the environment. Members were already encouraged to recycle their plastic bags and were doing so in large numbers. In 1995, it was calculated that over 84,000 plastic bags were recycled

Total funds raised surpasses $2 million at the 2005 Charity Golf Classic. 2005 Charity Golf Classic Committee.

The annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic, first held in 1993, is now one of the largest and best known charity events in the city. Every year, Calgary Co-op and its suppliers get into the swing of things to raise thousands of dollars for local charities. Increasing in popularity every year, the Charity Golf Classic hit an amazing milestone in 2001 – the tournament had raised $1 million for local charities in just eight short years! By 2003, sponsors were chipping in at even greater numbers. That year, $250,000

50 years

was raised, increasing the total raised to $1.575 million in just 10 years.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 44

Medic Moose with a special friend.

In

2006,

the

Charity

Golf

Classic

surpassed the $2.4 million mark. Some local charities that received funds from the

tournament

include

the

Alberta

Children’s Hospital, Boys and Girls Club Community Services, Calgary Emergency Medical Services ‘Project Smile’, Rotary Challenger Park, Missing Children Society

Project Smile

of Canada, Children’s Cottage, Calgary

Project

Public Library, Handi Bus, Meals on Wheels, and the Kerby Centre.

Smile,

complete

with

Medic

Moose stuffed toys, was launched in partnership with Calgary EMS in 1993.

Stuff a Bus

In four short years, over 3,000 Medic

In the Stuff a Bus food drive’s first year,

in emergency situations. Today, Project

Calgary Co-op donated over 11,000 frozen

Smile is still going strong, and Medic

turkeys, and members and customers

Moose is hard at work helping children

donated over $30,000 in non-perishable

get through challenging situations a little

food. This annual event, started in 1997

more easily.

in

partnership

Moose toys had been given to children

with

Calgary

Transit,

has raised thousands of dollars for the

Helping Over the Holidays

Calgary

Calgary Co-op gets into the holiday

Inter-Faith

Food

provided

Bank,

thousands

and of

pounds of food for people in need.

spirit of giving in a big way. Every year, ‘Nourish the Holiday Spirit’, an annual food drive partnership between Calgary Co-op and the Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank, is held during December.

Jacket Racket Each fall, Calgary Co-op participates in ‘Jacket Racket’. For close to twenty years, ‘Jacket Racket’ has provided children in need from ECS through grade 12 with a warm winter jacket for the cold winter months.

Walk for Safe Kids Calgary Co-op was title sponsor of the Missing Children Society of Canada’s ‘Walk

Stuff a Bus, 2005.

for Safe Kids’, an important initiative to enhance child safety and awareness.

Page 45 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

The Calgary Co-op spirit is alive and well at the Calgary Corporate Challenge, September 12, 1998.

‘Walk for Safe Kids’ also offered free DNA kits

to

children

attending

the

event.

Although the walk was discontinued in 2005, Calgary Co-op continues to support the Missing Children Society in other ways.

First Ride Calgary Co-op works with local school boards and bus companies to offer First Ride, a free school bus safety and educational program for first time riders and their parents.

Alberta Children’s Hospital In 2001, Calgary Co-op made a five-year, $500,000 commitment to the Alberta Children’s Hospital. These funds would be used for the construction of Emily’s Backyard, a supervised play area at the new Alberta Children’s Hospital. In 2005, Calgary Co-op completed this five-year pledge, but continues to contribute to Emily’s Backyard and now sponsors the

Pumping Up Community Spirit Calgary Co-op’s roots in the community are deep, and its commitment strong. From the beginning, Calgary Co-op has been active in the communities it serves. Whether it’s flipping pancakes at Strathmore’s Heritage Days, fielding a full slate of athletes in the Calgary Corporate Challenge, or supplying food to thousands of hungry scouts at the Canadian Scout Jamboree CJ’93, Calgary Co-op is always there to lend a hand – and a smile.

hospital’s Therapeutic Clown program.

Calgary Stampede

Cheering for a Good Cause

Calgary Co-op centres are well known

We all remember the spring of 2004 and the Red Mile. The Hard Hat for the hardest working player. This was of course the Calgary Flames’ amazing run for the Stanley Cup. The spirit of Calgary

for their Stampede spirit. Why not?

The

Stampede

is

the

community’s

a

celebration

western

of

heritage.

Centres hold well-attended Stampede breakfasts, often feeding over 50,000

rang loud and clear that spring. And true to the spirit of co-operation, Calgary Co-op worked with the Flames Foundation to harness some of the city’s spirit to help the less fortunate. Calgary Co-op sold away-game tickets throughout the Stanley Cup run. The Flames Foundation donated proceeds from ticket sales of

50 years

$155,000 to the Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank – the largest cash donation ever made to the food bank!

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 46

Calgary Co-op / Heritage Park Chuckwagon Driver at Strathmore’s Heritage Days, 1993.

Lisa Minton from Macleod Trail Centre packing groceries in reusable nylon bags, 1990.

hungry wranglers over the course of a single Stampede. Year after year, Calgary Co-op centres win ‘Best Decorated’ in the large food store category. Calgary Co-op has even been known to sponsor a winning chuckwagon rider or two.

Honouring Our Veterans Every year, Calgary Co-op works with the Calgary

Poppy

Fund,

Royal

Canadian

Legion and local schools and community groups to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of Canada’s soldiers and veterans. 2005 was the ‘Year of the Veteran’ and Calgary Co-op was particularly active, providing financial and other support to events throughout the year.

The Santa Claus Parade From 2001 to 2004, Calgary Co-op was

Protecting & Respecting the Environment

the title sponsor of the Calgary Co-op

Environmental stewardship is top of mind at

Santa Claus Parade, hosted by the Calgary

Calgary Co-op. It has been since the start.

There are countless examples of decisions Calgary Co-op has made to benefit the environment. Here is just a sampling of its efforts over the years.

In the early 1970s – before most people started thinking about such things – the Calgary Co-op Board agreed that soft drinks should be marketed in returnable bottles only. In 1989, Calgary Co-op became the first grocery store in Alberta to introduce egg cartons made from recycled plastic

.

17, 2002 ovember

rade, N Claus Pa ta n a S p Co-o Calgary

Downtown

Association.

Calgary

pop

bottles.

That

same

year,

Calgary

Co-op introduced organically derived and biodegradable cleaning products under the

Co-op

Soap Factory label.

provided funding and a great Stampede-

The early 1990s was a hub of environmental

style pre-parade breakfast to boot!

activity at Calgary Co-op. In 1990, they introduced a reusable nylon

Page 47 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

grocery bag for $2, and plastic

Calgary Co-op’s commitment to the

bag recycling was encouraged

environment even went so far as to briefly

with drop off bins at each centre.

interrupt development of the Midtown

An Environmental Centre was

Market in 2003 to figure out what to do

set up at each location to

with seven healthy flowering crabapple

promote

environmentally

trees. While this may seem like a small

sensitive cleaning products,

problem to most, with Calgary Co-op’s

the Responsible Choices environmental

long history of environmental concern

awareness program was launched and, by

and action, it was a major stumbling

the end of the year, Calgary Co-op was

block. To everyone’s delight, a perfect

accepting foam egg cartons for recycling.

solution was found. The crabapple trees

Calgary Co-op gas bars got into the action too. They accepted used propane tanks in their propane tank recycling program, introduced a car battery recovery and recycling service, and offered oil collection.

upheld

Calgary

Co-op’s

commitment

to environmental sensitivity, but also honoured Canada’s military.

Time and again, Calgary Co-op has

Sonic Green Oil, a re-refined oil.

been recognized for its leadership in

1993 Deer Valley Centre became the first CFC-free grocery store in Canada. One year later, Calgary Co-op was recognized for it efforts to reduce light pollution by installing new outdoor lights at the Shawnessy and Macleod Trail centres.

Just one short year later, Calgary Co-op looked into its garbage bins and realized that only 200 of the 11,000 pounds of waste produced at Calgary Co-op centres was unsuitable for reuse. This was the beginning of the Calgary Co-op composting pilot program.

Calgary

Co-op

‘neighbourhood

opened concept’

environmental

stewardship.

In

1991,

Calgary Co-op was awarded the City of

Calgary

Awareness

Corporate Award

for

Environmental its

proactive

environmental programs and concerns.

In 2002, Calgary Co-op won the Rs for Excellence Award from the Alberta Recycling Council. In May 2004, Calgary Co-op

was

again

commitment

to

environment

with

recognized

community the

for and

its the

Environmental

Achievement Award - Corporate 2003 during the Calgary Awards.

While the awards and recognition are

its

first

centre,

the

Monterey Centre, in 1995. Smaller than traditional Calgary Co-op stores, it was

years

of the Regiments. The solution not only

Calgary Co-op gas bars also started to sell

Environmental efforts continued and in

50

now grace the grounds of the Museum

nice to receive, they are not why Calgary Co-op

continues

to

be

so

strongly

committed to the environment. Why do they do it then?

also the most energy efficient grocery

Simple. Because it’s the right thing

store at the time in western Canada.

to do. g

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 48

Grand opening of Store No. 6 on Richmond Road, 1971.

Without You...

Where Would Calgary Co-op Be? Page 49 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

W hen reminiscing about the early Early Pioneers

days of Calgary Co-op, certain names instantly spring to mind. Names of people without whom Calgary Co-op might have had a much different history. People whose commitment and dedication knew no bounds and were second to none.

Following are a few of the many people who were instrumental to Calgary Co-op’s

In the 1940s, Gordon worked for Maple

success. There are many more pioneers

Leaf, a branch of the United Farmers of

– too many to name – and Calgary Co-op

Alberta Co-operative (UFA). He joined

extends a heartfelt thank you to them all.

the

first

canvassers

when

Calgary

Co-op was raising funds to become Gordon Barker

an independent entity and, at the first

Gordon Barker served as the Calgary Co-op Board Chair for thirty years until 1986 when he retired. Gordon’s commitment

and

contribution

to

annual general meeting held on February 2, 1957, Gordon was elected Calgary Co-op Board Chair.

John Suits

Calgary Co-op is unmatched. He helped guide Calgary Co-op through turbulent

John Suits supported

times and seized every opportunity to

Calgary Co-op right

make Calgary Co-op a strong force in

from day one, but

the community.

his

dedication

co-operatives

to in

general started long before that. In 1937, he worked as a carry out boy for the Eckville Co-op, gradually working his way up to assistant general manager. John served in World War II. Upon his return he again joined the cooperative movement, first working at Portrait of Gordon Barker.

the UFA’s Three Hills store, then moving

50 years

to Calgary to become head of the UFA’s stores division. John became the store manager of Calgary Co-op’s downtown centre when it first opened. When Calgary Co-op started expanding with new centres, John became the Calgary Co-op General Manager, a position he held until 1978.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 50

Jack Rust

before it became Calgary Co-op. He first

Jack Rust began his co-operative career in 1948 working at co-operatives in Medicine Hat, Calgary and Drumheller.

When Calgary Co-op entered the scene in 1956, he assumed various positions of responsibility with the new organization.

In 1967, he became Grocery Supervisor.

Jack remained Grocery Supervisor until his retirement in 1976.

worked in the meat department at the UFA. When local people decided to make the store independent, Alex joined other canvassers to raise the needed funds to do so. Alex remained at Store No. 1 for his entire Calgary Co-op career, first as the head of the meat department, then as Store Manager from 1963 to 1979 when he retired.

Allan Gibson

Elaine Shaw The day before the downtown centre’s official opening as Calgary Co-op, Elaine Shaw started her new career as Calgary Co-op’s first accountant. In 1963, she moved to the new executive offices in Store No. 3 where she continued to head the accounting department and also took over the membership department. In the early 1960s, Elaine was also appointed Board secretary and in the early 1980s she was the corporate secretary and internal auditor.

Allan

Gibson’s

co-operative

spirit

is

second to none. Allan served on Calgary Co-op’s Board of Directors from its first meeting in 1957 until 1976. He acted as an unofficial public relations person for Calgary Co-op, speaking to service clubs, the Women’s Guild, school classes and whoever else asked about co-operatives.

Keith Rosenberger Keith Rosenberger also served on the Board from the beginning. He was actually on the provisional Board first, before serving on

Alex Todd

Calgary Co-op’s regular Board of Directors

Alex Todd’s co-operative career, like so many others, started at the UFA store

until his retirement in 1975. Keith was always a great booster of co-operatives and Calgary Co-op in particular.

Page 51 • Calgary Co-operative Association Limited

50 years

OfďŹ cial ground breaking ceremony at the Shawnessy Centre site, 1991. L-R: Doug Craig, Wally Pettam, Bruno Friesen, Gerry Kiehl, (unknown).

Guiding Calgary Co-op Through the Years Board Chair

General Manager / CEO

Gordon Barker

1957 - 1986

John Suits

1956 - 1978

Bruno Friesen

1987 - 1997

Gerry Kiehl

1979 - 1993

Al Fromm

1997 - 1998

Gene Syvenky

1993 - 1998

Alice Brown

1998 - 1999

Alice Brown (interim)

1998 - 1999

Randy Kott

1999 - 2000

Milford Sorensen

1999 - 2004

Don Cihelka

2000 - 2001

Darwin Flathers (interim)

Barry Ashton

2001 - 2006

Ken McCullough

Alex Ingram

present

Loyal Members Calgary Co-op is indebted to its early pioneers and its dedicated leaders and visionaries. Most importantly though, Calgary Co-op extends its thanks to the hundreds of thousands of people in the community who have been proud to call Calgary Co-op their store over the last 50 years.

Calgary Co-op is your store, and without you... who knows where Calgary Co-op would be. g

50 years

Two brick sculptures are unveiled at the Shawnessy Centre grand opening, April 23, 1992.

Calgary Co-operative Association Limited • Page 52

2004

2004 - present

Locations & Services CALGARY CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION

Northwest Brentwood, 4122 Brentwood Road N.W. .........................................299-4311 Dalhousie, 5505 Shaganappi Trail N.W. ...........................................299-4331 Crowfoot, 35 Crowfoot Way N.W. ................................................... 299-5353

Hamptons, 1000 Hamptons Drive N.W. ........................................299-6711 Rocky Ridge, 11595 Rockyvalley Drive N.W.. ................................299-5450 Creekside, 12626 Symons Valley Road N.W. (Food centre opens in late 2006)

Northeast North Hill, 540 - 16 Avenue N.E. ....................................................299-4276 Beddington, 8220 Centre Street N.E. ............................................ 299-4445

Village Square, 2520 - 52 Street N.E. ................................................299-5332 Monterey Square, 2220 - 68 Street N.E. ........................................299-2600 Taradale, 6520 Falconridge Boulevard N.E. ....................................299-4012

Commemorative Magazine

50th Anniversary

Southwest Calgary Co-op Fast Facts ............................................... 1 Premier’s Message ........................................................ 2

Midtown Market, 1130 - 11 Avenue S.W. . ....................................... 299-4257 Richmond Road, 4940 Richmond Road S.W. ...............................299-4490 Oakridge, 2580 Southland Drive S.W. ............................................. 299-4355

Shawnessy, 250 Shawville Boulevard S.W. ...................................... 299-4426

Mayor’s Message .......................................................... 3

West Springs, 917 - 85 Street S.W.

Message from CEO & Board Chair ................................... 4

Southeast

Calgary Co-op: Today & Beyond ..................................... 6

Downtown Gas Bar, 1111 - 1 Street S.E. ........................................... 299-4257

Sarah Savill: Calgary Co-op’s No. 1 Co-operator ............... 7 How It All Began .......................................................... 7 Calgary Co-op Timeline: A Look Back .............................. 9 A Conversation with Gordon Barker ............................... 13 50 Years of Dedicated People ....................................... 14 50 Years of Exceptional Quality, Selection & Value ........... 18

(Food centre opens in late 2006)

Macleod Trail, 8818 Macleod Trail S.E. ............................................299-4292 Forest Lawn, 3330 - 17 Avenue S.E. ................................................. 299-4470

Deer Valley, 1221 Canyon Meadows Drive S.E. ...............................299-4350 South Trail Crossing, 4307 - 130 Avenue S.E. ................................... 257-7272 Eastfield Gas Bar, 5250 - 50 Avenue S.E. ........................................ 299-4444

Heritage Towne Centre Liquor Store, 76 Heritage Gate S.E. ........299-4335 Heritage Towne Centre Gas Bar, 6 Heritage Gate S.E. ................ 299-4334

Copperfield Gas Bar, 15566 McIver Blvd S.E. ................................. 299-4110

Airdrie

50 Years of the Products & Services You Need ................ 25

2700 Main Street ............................................................................... 912-3700

50 Years of Going Above & Beyond ............................... 32

Okotoks

50 Years of Co-operative Values ................................... 37

Gas Bar, #111, 31 Southridge Drive .................................................. 995-4573

50 Years of Corporate Responsibility.............................. 43

Strathmore

Without You... Where Would Calgary Co-op Be? .............. 49

Food Store, 320 Second Street .......................................................... 934-3121

Locations & Services ..............................Inside Back Cover

Gas Bar, 715 Wheatland Trail ........................................................... 934-3044

Head Office 2735 - 39 Avenue N.E, Calgary ............................ 219-6025 Gas Bar

Front Cover (foreground): Calgary Mayor Don MacKay and one of Calgary Co-op’s original employees cut the ribbon of the downtown centre in 1956. Little did they know the success that would be born from this first grand opening.

Front Cover (background): 50 years later, Calgary Co-op celebrates its golden anniversary. The original downtown centre is gone. A new flagship centre, the Midtown Market, is the new symbol of Calgary Co-op and its bright future.

Car Wash

Diesel

Travel Office

Liquor

50 Years Proud...

And Growing