It’s a celebration eight decades in the making. This year, the Meadow Lake Co-op is marking its 80th anniversary, and things kicked off earlier this week with a cake-cutting ceremony held Monday (March 3) at the Meadow Lake Co-op Food Store. “This 80-year celebration marks a long period of time, and I am very proud to be a part of it,” remarked Meadow Lake Co-op general manager Caralee Strome during Monday’s cake-cutting ceremony. “But, this is a celebration that would not be happening if it wasn’t for our members.” This was echoed by Joseph Olukayode, marketing manager for the Meadow Lake Co-op, when interviewed recently by Northern Pride. “This year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate 80 years of serving our community with dedication, integrity and a commitment to excellence.” Olukayode said. “Since our founding in 1945, we have grown alongside the community, evolving to meet the needs of our members while staying true to our core values.” Olukayode went on to note, through the support of its members, loyal customers, hard-working team members, and strong community partnerships, the Co-op has faced challenges, embraced change and celebrated countless achievements all thanks to the people who have been part of the same journey.
“As we commemorate 80 years, we reflect on our history with pride and look ahead with excitement,” he said. “This celebration is not just about our past; it’s about our future and the continued impact we strive to make.” In addition to this week’s cake-cutting ceremony, there is a draw currently ongoing at the food store. Customers can enter for a chance to win a 80-second shopping spree. The winner of this draw, from any location, will have the flexibility to do his or her shopping spree at a location of their choice – either the ML Food Store, Goodsoil Food Store or Ile-a-la Crosse Food Store.
“They will be able to get an entry form upon receiving the receipt from their purchases,” Olukayode said. “That will run from Monday (March 3) until March 31. The draw will take place that day. The entire celebration isn’t too big right now, but we hope to plan more as the year goes on and details aren’t available just yet.” The public is encouraged to frequent the Co-op’s social media pages for updates on future events surrounding the 80th anniversary. “Eighty years is a long time of running a business,” Olukayode said. “We have been through a lot in that time, yet we are still standing strong. For sure this is a milestone we want to celebrate. We can’t tell our story without our members, and that includes our team members… The people in the community and our team members have really contributed to the longevity of our business.”
Looking to the future, Olukayode also expressed how privileged the Co-op is to have secured naming rights to the Co-op Centre, the new arena and recreation facility currently under construction on Meadow Lake’s east side. “It aligns with our values and is something we are proud to be a part of,” he said. “Here’s to 80 years of success and many more to come.”