Very few modern day businesses get to celebrate 80 years in operation which makes today’s milestone for the Emerald Co-op all the more significant.
Born out of the need for reliable farming supplies in 1945, Emerald Co-op had humble beginnings in a small shed on the site of today’s Mitre 10 store in Main Road.
Stockfeed was in short supply in the post-World War II era and local farmers were forced to travel long distances to purchase chaff and other supplies.
One of the Co-op’s first directors Henry Wise remarked at the time that the business would start in a small way and grow through continued courageous spirit and co-operative effort of the community.
That optimism would shine through over the decades as the Co-op grew in size and turnover and has fulfilled its mission to provide the Emerald region with quality goods and service to support the community.
At the heart of its success are the 2500 members whose consistent custom has underpinned the business and enabled its sustainability over eight decades.
Members receive regular discounts at the store and feel invested in a thriving local business now branded as a modern Mitre 10 store supplying hardware, timber, stock feed and kitchen designs.
The retail and trade support from the Emerald and district residents allows the Co-op to sponsor local community clubs and projects in the region.
Today the business employs 25 staff and is overseen by a Board of mostly local directors who intend to keep growing the Co-op’s operations.
In recent years, the Mitre 10 store has had an extensive revamp including a major overhaul of the trade sales area, which has resulted in a huge increase in trade business. Emerald Mitre 10 is now seen as a key player in the regional and metro trade market. The retail store has also seen improvements such as a new state of the art paint department. Late 2024 also saw the opening of the dedicated Studio317 showroom for all kitchen and bathroom design projects.
Emerald Co-op chair Julie Brennan said the Co-op had grown from humble beginnings to be a vital part of everyday life in the town, providing essential supplies, friendly service and a place to connect.
“It has weathered economic changes, natural disasters and evolving community needs, always while staying true to its core values of cooperation and community support,” Ms Brennan said.
“As we celebrate this significant anniversary, the Board recognises the Co-op’s members, dedicated staff and loyal customers who have contributed to its success.
“Together they’ve built more than a business – they have created a legacy of resilience, collaboration and mutual support.”
Ms Brennan said she was proud to be part of such a wonderful and lasting success story and looked forward to continuing to build and develop the Co-op so it continues for another 80 years.
To mark the celebration, Co-op members can enjoy 15 per cent off on nearly all products from Friday 23 May to Sunday 25 May. This is an in store offer only so members should get down to the store this weekend.
