Co-operative movement returns to birthplace as global delegates descend on Rochdale

Posted by on 4 Jul 2025

This week Rochdale and Manchester play a leading role in the global celebration of co-operation as part of the United Nations’ International Year of Co-operatives 2025. Over 500 delegates from across the world – from Argentina to Armenia and South Africa to Sri Lanka are arriving to take part in the festivities.

The UN has designated 2025 as a year to recognise the power of co-operative action. For the global movement, it is a return to its birthplace: Rochdale, where the modern co-operative was founded in 1844 by the Rochdale Pioneers. This historic connection is being marked with a packed programme of events supported by Co-op Group and Co-operatives UK, including Co-op Congress at Rochdale Town Hall and public activities at the Rochdale Pioneers Museum.

Rose Marley, CEO of Manchester-based Co-operatives UK, said: “It’s incredibly powerful to see the world return to where it all began - right here in the North West. Co-operatives were born out of industrial hardship in Rochdale and the values that shaped them - fairness, self-reliance, and community - are still urgently needed today. This region isn’t just our historic heart, it’s a living centre of co-operative activity, innovation and leadership. From Rochdale to the world, co-operation continues to offer practical answers to the challenges we face.”

The International Day of Co-operatives, held on Saturday 5 July will highlight how co-operatives build stronger communities and more inclusive economies. For Co-op Group, it also marks the significance of the Fund for International Co-operative Development, launched at the Rochdale Pioneers Museum last year, to honour 180 years of co-operation.

The fund will provide financial support and expertise to co-operatives globally – helping communities rebuild after crises, fostering peace, and creating sustainable economies. Its focus ranges from immediate humanitarian assistance to post-crisis rebuilding and long-term mutual aid.

The co-operative movement is a key driver of the global economy. With over one billion members and more than three million co-operatives worldwide, the movement is one of the UK’s most significant exports, fostering international trade and building a fairer global economy.

Shirine Khoury-Haq, Chief Executive of Co-op Group - which hosted the International Co-operative Alliance’s General Assembly on Wednesday, 2 July said: “The values of co-operation were born in the North West and they remain just as relevant today. This is a moment to reflect on where we came from and to show how we are still working with communities, both here and around the world, to build a fairer future. What’s more, this year demonstrates how co-operatives are leading the way in creating global economic connections that benefit everyone.”

“180 years after we were founded in Rochdale, our co-operative values still guide how our Co-op does business. Our model - the strength of which lies in being run by members for members - balances purpose with profit, enabling positive impacts in a changing world. Co-operatives have a vital role to play in demonstrating a fairer, more values-led way of doing business - and in delivering better outcomes for members and society. The UN has recognised the impact of co-operatives around the world in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals. That’s why 2025 has been designated the International Year of Co-operatives.”

Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council said: “We are so proud to welcome delegates from across the world to this prestigious event at our wonderful Rochdale Town Hall, and what perfect timing during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture.” 

The week’s (30 June to 6 July) diverse programme of events to celebrate the co-operative movement include workshops on responsible retailing, sustainability, and global co-operative principles; historical tours including visits to the Rochdale Pioneers Museum and Manchester’s Co-op Quarter; and cultural experiences like film screenings and urban gardening tours. 

Highlights also include a showcase of the Malawi Partnership, art installations like ‘The Herds’ and Co-op Congress at Rochdale Town Hall (4 and 5 July) with speakers including actor and comedian Steve Coogan and Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham. These events aim to inspire participants, build connections, and reflect on the movement’s legacy and future.

Photograph

The launch of the International Co-operative Development Fund at the Rochdale Pioneers Museum in December 2024. (Left to right) Paul Gerrard (Co-op Group), Rose Marley (Co-operatives UK), Debbie Robinson (Central Co-op), Sarah Alldred (Co-operative College) and Pete Westall (Midcounties Co-operative).