Lakeland Co-op Creates New Jobs through Growth in a Challenging Economy

The Vision Statement of your Lakeland Co-op is: to become the trusted name of retail value and service in Northeast Alberta.

The Lakeland Co-op announces their exciting growth strategy for 2016 and beyond.  This growth strategy consists of investing in their facilities and the communities they do business in.  Lakeland Co-op will begin construction of new Home Centre in the new Eastgate development on the east side of Bonnyville, Ab. This will provide lumber, building supplies and hardware for contractors as well as for the local “do it yourself” homeowners.

There will also be a major renovation and modernization of the old Bonnyville Cardlock at west end of 54^th Ave. It will now be a new Gas Bar and Convenience Store. The Co-op will be investing in $12.5 Million these two projects. Construction of the new Home Centre will start the first week of May 2016. The construction of the new Gas Bar and Convenience Store will start middle of May of 2016.

Lakeland Co-op will be tripling the amount of employees within the next year as the new projects are completed. That is will add approximately 40-50 new jobs; with most of the jobs being full time. “Our loyal members have been asking for this ‎type of merchandise and service. Our Board and Managers have been working on this Home Centre project for over 2 years” said President of the Board of Directors, John Irwin.

Lakeland Co-op is locally invested, owned and has been serving their customers and members since 1984.  They currently have over 4,000 members. Over the past 5 years your Co-op has given back over $9 million in equity and cashback to the members.  “Lakeland Co-op is committed to remaining relevant for today’s members and the next generation of Co-op members. This will occur by growing and investing in sustainable operations.” said Mario Bouvier General Manager Lakeland Co-op

Lakeland Co-op started in tough economic times (1980’s). The first Co-op members saw the need for goods and services to be locally provided. Through the support of the members it became a reality and made Lakeland Co-op the success it is today. Once again the local members see a new demand of goods and services that the Co-op can provide. Extensive research and along with a feasibility study; both of which indicate these projects are very viable.

“Our Co-op is known for quality products at competitive prices with quality service where all members share in the profits. Our Board and Managers are committed to bringing these values to this new enterprise. Anyone can shop at the Co-op. However, only members are eligible to share in the profits.” Stated John Irwin, Board President

The Co-op expects that these projects will assist in creating jobs and help boost the local economy with spin off business to local businesses, such as local sub trades, the hotels, rental properties and restaurants.

“We are very proud to be bringing this project to the Lakeland area. We have loyal members and Lakeland Co-op is committed to our members and the communities that we serve for decades to come.” said Mario Bouvier General Manager Lakeland Co-op.