Euro Coop Members Gather in Prague for Two Days of Exchange, Innovation, and Cooperation

On 9–10 October, Euro Coop members convened in Prague at the kind invitation of COOP Czech, for two days of meetings, exchanges, and experiences showcasing the innovation and cooperative spirit driving our movement forward.

The programme began on 9 October with a visit to the COOP 24/7 hybrid store in Žebrák—the first of its kind in Europe. Delegates were introduced to the store’s digital and AI-powered technologies, enabling a seamless shopping experience that combines traditional service with modern innovation. The visit offered a first-hand look at how COOP Czech is leading the way in the digital transformation of the retail sector.

The group then travelled to Zbiroh Castle, where the CEOs Meeting of Consumer Cooperatives took place. The session opened with a presentation on the COOP system in the Czech Republic by Lukáš Němčík, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors, offering an overview of the national network’s structure and achievements.

COOP Czech, formally known as the Union of Czech and Moravian Consumer Cooperatives, brings together 44 consumer cooperatives with 99,868 members and an average converted number of employees of 12,350. In 2024, Czech consumer cooperatives achieved a total turnover of CZK 35,877 million, of which retail turnover amounted to CZK 35,064 million. As the country’s largest retail network, COOP Czech combines a strong local presence with forward-looking initiatives in sustainability and digital innovation—including the introduction of Europe’s first hybrid 24/7 store concept.

A highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Mastercard Advisory, which shared the results of a European study developed exclusively for consumer cooperatives. The study, presented by Anton Vaskovskyi, Vice President at Mastercard, and Martin Dolejš, Director at Mastercard, analysed the current situation and potential of consumer cooperatives across Europe. Prepared by an international team of experts, it provided valuable insights to inspire future strategies and collaboration.

Following the presentation, CEOs engaged in a fruitful exchange on future cooperation opportunities and discussed ways for Euro Coop to serve as a hub facilitating stronger collaboration and knowledge sharing across the network.

The day concluded with a guided tour of Zbiroh Castle, followed by a return to Prague, where delegates enjoyed a journey on a historical tram through the city centre, passing by its most iconic landmarks. The evening culminated in a Gala Dinner and concluding event on a boat, offering a memorable cruise along the river.

On 10 October, members gathered at the R. Jelínek Distillery Museum, housed in a beautifully preserved 17th-century building in the heart of Prague, for the Euro Coop Board Meeting.

During the session, members appointed Mr. Fabrizio Fabbri as the new Secretary General ad interim and discussed the organisation’s budget and strategic direction for the coming months. These discussions built upon the exchanges from the previous day’s CEO meeting, ensuring alignment between strategic vision and operational priorities.

Euro Coop extends its heartfelt thanks to COOP Czech for their outstanding hospitality and the rich programme they organised. The two days in Prague were not only an opportunity to strengthen collaboration among members but also a vivid reminder of the cooperative values that unite and inspire us across Europe.