Centering Cooperative Values
Like so many before, this has been a year of changes, including both difficult and exciting decisions for Seward.
We completed the much-needed renovation of the Franklin store; we made big decisions about the Creamery building; admin and bakery staff moved back to the main store locations from the Creamery; and there have been difficult decisions to eliminate positions as we struggled with significant financial losses.
At times it has been very heavy, especially for our General Manager just finishing his second year in the position. While the Board has not been the main decision-maker for many of these changes, we have seen how following the cooperative values has helped guide actions when responding to this challenging financial landscape. We strive to do the best we can in these difficult situations for everyone involved. When we are in service positions and when we are in leadership positions, we have the duty to look at options, seek help, and both lean on and support each other. I see that in action at Seward across the co-op, from floor staff to management. We all strive to show up for each other.
There are exciting changes, too. With all staff working together in the store locations, I’m hopeful to see new connections made, knowledge shared, and community built throughout the various functions that make the co-op run.
As for next steps with the Creamery, we will be sharing news with owners as soon as we’re able. This will be an example of being able to dream big for this space where it’s located on Franklin Ave on MniSota Makoce and to continue living our values through action.
Thank you to our general manager, Ray Williams, and the entire management and admin team for guiding the co-op through this past year with all the ups and downs; looking into the details and evaluating what will work best for Seward Co-op as we continue to evolve. The co-op is in good hands with a General Manager willing to meet challenges head on.
Thank you to the staff on the sales floor of our stores each day. You all are the faces of the co-op for our owners and the frontline for everything Seward does.
Lastly, I want to extend all my gratitude to directors stepping down from the board this year; Claire Purvey-Houston, Sally Nixon, and Kate Seybold. You three are multitalented, thoughtful, caring, and passionate people; you have set high expectations for our new board members. Thank you all for your service to Seward Co-op.
Cassandra Meyer, Board President