As a shareholder for a great number of years, you can imagine my shock and dismay when I read the front page of the Red Deer Advocate informing us all of the closure of the Plaza Co-op grocery store.
As a shareholder, I was given no prior knowledge of this decision by the board of directors or CEO Gerald Hiebert. I would ask, why not?
In the “frequently asked questions” blurb it is stated, “People are choosing to shop at locations in, or closer to their neighbourhoods.”
I would like the board of directors and Hiebert to know the Plaza Co-op grocery store is in my neighbourhood. I have been shopping at the downtown Co-op in my neighbourhood since the cafeteria and hardware were situated downstairs.
The Plaza Co-op grocery store is the reason the other Co-op stores exist in Red Deer.
Not only does the decision of the board of directors and Hiebert displace staff and loyal customers alike, it also puts the rest of the independently owned stores in the plaza at risk of also having to close.
To the staff of the Plaza Co-op grocery store, I am so sorry for how you have been treated. I have truly appreciated all you have done. You will be sorely missed.
The Central Alberta Co-op Ltd. is having its annual general meeting on May 29 at the Black Knight Inn.
Come out and voice your displeasure.
Lily Breland, Red Deer