President & Sec-Gen Holiday Greetings ❄

Dear co-operators, colleagues and friends,

Despite the enthusiasm at the onset of 2022 that we may see community and work life return to pre-pandemic normality, we are now closing out a controversial year which brought challenges no one could anticipate – war, destruction, mass migration, economic downturn. The war against Ukraine has left a nation devastated, a region compromised, and a continent divided. Yet, the biggest price is levied onto the ordinary people and the local communities. As economic operators belonging to and serving the local communities, consumer co-operatives have not remained unscathed. Galloping inflation, exponential cost increases and disrupted, even halted supply chains all plague national economies, adding further pressure to growing numbers of citizens and consumers. 

It is truly inspiring to see our movement come together in solidarity with our brothers and sisters from Coop Ukraine. Led by mutual co-operation and self-help, within the first few weeks of the crisis millions of funds were raised in support of local communities. Many consumer co-operatives have welcomed and helped Ukrainian citizens fleeing the conflict zones, supporting them in finding shelter, supplies, employment, childcare, but not only. 

In parallel, our members are restructuring their operations, optimizing their offers through innovation and co-operation, thereby supporting their millions of citizens and consumers in managing their monthly expenses. 

All this demonstrates the power of the co-operative identity and that our values and principles can drive a positive change for our 30 million consumer-members. It also gives us hope that 2023 will be a little bit better knowing that our community of consumer co-operatives continues to grow and focus on what it does best – serving the people. 

This is why we reiterate our commitment to facilitate and strengthen the co-operation between national members within Euro Coop, thereby generating member benefits. Our collective effort shall guide us to new heights. 

On the occasion of the holiday season, we extend our warmest wishes to you, your loved ones and friends for health, prosperity, and most of all, peace. 
 

With co-operative regards,

Mathias Fiedler                                                                     Todor Ivanov     
President                                                                                Secretary-General   

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