The Co-operative movement - Tamworth Co-op

Our Co-operative Movement

The Co‑operative movement is built on a powerful idea: independent societies working together, united by shared values and a commitment to serving their members and local communities. Rather than a single national organisation, it is a family of individual co‑ops—each proudly self‑governing, yet all guided by the same principles of fairness, democracy, and mutual benefit.

Where it began

What began in 1844 with the Rochdale Pioneers—28 ordinary people determined to secure fair prices and honest goods—has grown into a nationwide family of independent, member‑owned societies.

How it grew

Guided by the original Rochdale Principles of fairness, democracy and community benefit, co‑ops quickly spread across the UK, including here in Tamworth, where co‑operation took root in 1886.

Today…

Today, although the movement has evolved, our purpose remains unchanged. We are still owned and democratically run by our members, reinvesting profits into improving our services and supporting the communities we serve.

The future

The future of co‑operatives is all about people coming together to build fairer, stronger communities—combining modern innovation with our timeless values of democracy, fairness, and shared benefit.

Co-operation in Tamworth

The story of co‑operation in Tamworth mirrors the wider national movement. After the success of the Rochdale Society in 1844, the co‑operative model steadily spread across the North of England and into the Midlands. By 1865, co‑ops were well established in Derby, Stafford and Leicester, before taking firm root in Tamworth in 1886.

Today, we’re proud to carry that legacy forward—championing the same values of integrity, community, and mutual support that inspired the Pioneers more than 175 years ago.

Our Society