The Humboldt Co-op continued to provide area residents with an expanded variety of products and services through the past year. At its Annual General Meeting on April 17th, the Directors and General Manager walked those in attendance through the year.

Board Vice-President Scott Gehlen presided over the meeting which laid out the work of the past year and projected projects for the coming year. 

President Roger Nordick was pleased with modest sales growth at the Co-op card lock and C-Store. He emphasized the importance of continued brand awareness in both their Humboldt and Lanigan retail outlets along with continued development of social media engagement. The development of a multi-year strategic growth plan that focuses on changing consumer needs, customer engagement, and community service was also welcomed.

Nordick referred to changing consumer patterns in the light of urban big box developments and more recently online purchasing. The recent closure of some national chains and major retailers demonstrates a clear shift in preference. Nordick says, "We're not in that position yet; we're very comfortable with our position right now. We obviously have room to grow. But we're doing what we can to stay ahead of all the challenges we are facing and one of the biggest challenges is probably in terms of social media and online shopping."

One of the bright spots according to Randy Graham, District Director for Federated Co-op Limited (FCL) was in the stellar year the provincial organization had. As of October 2018, FCL realized record earnings of almost $1.1 billion, which represented an over 40% increase in earnings from the previous year. That level of earnings meant a significant return to the Humboldt Co-op in terms of patronage refunds. 

Graham explains, "The earnings were largely due to our refinery in Regina being able to capitalize on favourable market conditions within the oil industry and the energy business unit. This refers to the price of oil per barrel. We believe that this was a single opportunity, and while we welcome the record earnings, we do not forecast such a record occurring again for some time."

For General Manager Brent Walker, much of the success lies with the people at the heart of the Humboldt and Lanigan operations. He notes that the 95 member team upholds the hallmarks of excellence, teamwork, and integrity.

The evening concluded with the induction of directors. All three who had completed terms in 2019, Roger Nordick, Shelley Hergott, and Lloyd Willison were reinstated by acclamation for another three-year term.