Annual Report and Dividend Announcement
The Channel Islands Cooperative Society (CI Coop) has released its 2025 Annual Report, marking a return to profitability and significant progress in delivering value to members and communities, despite ongoing economic challenges.
In his foreword, Chairman Jon Bond highlights the Society’s improved trading performance and financial resilience, reporting a net surplus of £0.8 million— a marked turnaround from the previous year’s £1.8 million loss.
He states:
"In what has continued to be a volatile and demanding market, we’ve remained focused on improving performance and increasing value for members. Following feedback from our members our introduction of member pricing has already given back to members at the point of purchase. In addition, the board are delighted to be able to recommend a 2% dividend at our Annual Members’ Meeting in May.”
Key Financial Metrics:
- Dividend Update: A 2% profit share has been proposed by the Board, subject to member approval at the AMM.
- Turnover: CI Coop delivered a turnover of £211.2 million, up 1.3% (53 weeks v 53 weeks).
- Net Surplus: The Society reported a net profit of £0.8 million, reversing the previous year’s deficit.
CEO Mark Cox praised the hard work of colleagues and the loyalty of members in achieving these results, describing 2024 as a year of “real progress.”
He commented:
"Our primary focus last year was to strengthen our financial performance so we could continue rewarding our loyal members while delivering long-term value. It is pleasing to share the progress we have made towards this goal. We’ve returned to surplus, welcomed over 2,400 new members, and made significant investments in technology, pricing, and in further enhancing our support for local communities."
Mark emphasised that the Society is gaining momentum while staying true to its cooperative values:
"We’ve seen encouraging results across all areas of the business and have improved our performance against each of the Cooperative Principles—whether through deeper engagement with members, reinvestment in the community, or continued support for our colleagues."
He added:
"Our investment in engaging with members and listening to their needs has helped shape a more positive and inclusive future. Immediate rewards through Member Pricing have resonated strongly, delivering more than £1 million in savings since its launch in October. This initiative has led to better everyday value for our members, a rise in new member sign-ups, and a noticeable increase in participation. Over 80% of all sales now come from our members—an increase on the previous year—making us one of the leading consumer co-operatives in the UK for member economic participation."
"Equally, our investment in our pharmacy business has had a real and measurable impact, with refurbished and relocated stores performing exceptionally well."
He underlined the Society’s proactive response to the cost-of-living crisis:
"We’ve focused on managing our costs carefully so that we can reduce the impact of inflation on our members. This includes investing not only in promotional offers, but also in consistently lower everyday prices across our stores—ensuring value is accessible to everyone, every day."
In addition to investment in members and community, Mark highlighted a renewed focus on colleagues:
"We’ve also continued to invest in our people—through improved pay, enhanced benefits, and creating a more supportive, rewarding working environment—because we know that the success of our Society depends on the wellbeing and commitment of our colleagues."
He concluded:
"We are a business owned by its members, and everything we do is for their benefit. With Member Pricing, we are giving back at the checkout—every day. But we’re not stopping here. More exciting innovations and improvements are coming in 2025 as we modernise our member rewards proposition, deepen our impact in the community, and strengthen the value we offer to every member, every colleague, and the islands we call home."
"Community Impact and Values:
- Over 81,000 meals redistributed through Olio
- £328,000 donated to local charities and community causes
- 795 volunteering hours delivered by colleagues
- £7.9 million spent with local suppliers
- Continued investment in digital, pharmacy services, and retail infrastructure
CI Coop also confirmed further enhancements to its digital infrastructure and is preparing to launch Coop Mobile later this year—part of its broader strategy to widen member value and service.
As the largest member-owned organisation in the Channel Islands, employing more than 1,100 people, CI Coop remains committed to delivering for its members, colleagues, communities, and suppliers through a model of responsible, cooperative ownership.
ENDS For further information, please contact: David.mcgrath@channelislands.coop
Notes to Editors: CI Coop is a community-owned and focused retail cooperative serving the Channel Islands. With a long-standing commitment to sustainability, supporting local suppliers, and offering a wide range of quality products, Channel Islands Coop is dedicated to enhancing the lives of its customers and the communities it serves. With a proven track record of delivering for its members, profit is returned to members in respect to their purchases and all members have an equal vote on company policy at the AMM.