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March 3, 2025
Today, delegates representing more than 150 local Co-ops across Western Canada gathered at Federated Co-operatives Limited’s (FCL) 96th Annual Meeting.
During her address to the delegation, CEO Heather Ryan commended the Co-operative Retailing System (CRS) for its resilience and how together, it continued to achieve milestones, despite the adversity and challenges faced throughout the year.
“Together, we have faced many challenges over the past year, and together, we overcame many obstacles, including a cybersecurity event, continued inflationary pressure, changing market conditions and regulatory uncertainty," said Heather Ryan, FCL CEO. "Despite those circumstances, we remained rooted in our values, focused on our purpose and we are proud to return $252 million in patronage to local Co-ops and Co-op members across Western Canada."
Although it was a challenging year, FCL achieved total sales of $11.9 billion, resulting in net earnings of $297 million. As a result, FCL provided $252 million back to local Co-ops in 650 communities across Western Canada. Over the past five years, FCL has returned nearly $1.5 billion in patronage to local Co-ops.
The 96th Annual Meeting also marked the end of Sharon Alford’s term, as President/Chair of FCL’s Board of Directors. A new President/Chair will be elected and announced following the conclusion of the annual meeting.
"Today is a bittersweet but important milestone for our President Sharon Alford, as this meeting marks her last as Chair of FCL’s Board of Directors,” said Ryan. "On behalf of FCL and the CRS, we would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Sharon for her leadership, vision, and guidance during her tenure."
As FCL celebrates another year, the co-operative is also celebrating that the United Nations has proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Co-operatives. As FCL sets its direction for the future, this year presents a unique opportunity to recognize and celebrate the impactful contributions that co-operatives — such as our Co-op — make to communities, both locally and globally.
For more information on FCL’s 2024 fiscal year, please visit www.fcl.crs/annual-report