The CO-OP® brand is used by a network of retail co-operative associations across Western Canada that own and operate Co-op Agro Centres, Food Stores, Gas Bars/Convenience Stores, Home Centres, Pharmacies and more. Your local association is a member of this network, which we call the Co-operative Retailing System. The associations are independent organizations owned by their members, who democratically elect a local board of directors to govern the business. The Co-op brand is built on the idea of being truly local and the promise of staying that way. Associations may appear to be similar and often work together under the Co-op banner (e.g. marketing and procurement). However, each association works for the benefit of its respective members and communities. This is why locations across Western Canada – the way they’re operated and the products and services they offer – are slightly different. It’s a Co-op thing.