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MATTERS MORE FOR FARM CUSTOMERS The Co-op in Neerlandia, Alberta, has been in business for over a century — and Caleb Wierenga's family has been part of it since day one. Neerlandia Co-op is part of a network of approxi- mately 160 local Co-op associations that serve 1.9 million Western Canadian members every day. While many know Co-op for its consumer offerings like food stores and gas bars, Co-op and its membership 18 | AGRO structure also play a central role in the lives of pro- ducers like Wierenga, who consider their Local Co-op an essential part of both their farming operations and community. Local Hubs for Community Wierenga's Local Co-op is a hub of activity. Like many Local associations, Neerlandia Co-op is à major eco- nomic driver for the region, offering agronomic inputs, fuel, groceries, hardware and tools, sporting goods, clothing and other supplies. Wierenga said Co-op membership matters for many reasons, not least of which is the fact that he earns equity and cash back on his purchases. To maximize this core membership benefit, Wierenga acquires nearly al inputs for his family/s grain and hog business from Co-op — from fuel and fertilizer to crop protec- tion products, seed and more. Accessing everything his business needs through one Location is convenient, while membership ensures that his investment stays Local and that he benefits from the Co-op's success. Wierenga's family has a long history with Co-op. His great-grandfather was a founding member of Neer- landia Co-op upon its opening in 1922. Succeeding generations of his family have purchased member- ships and, as all Co-ops are completely locally owned and operated, his grandfather, father and uncles have also been involved as board members. As well, his grandmother and other family members have worked as cashiers in the Local Co-op store. Wierenga said he is proud of his family/s history with Co-op, and that they remain regular customers.
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