Riverina Co-op 3.66

The Riverina Co-operative is one of Wagga Wagga’s success stories.

From its humble beginnings in 1961 from a single rented room, the Co-operative today is a thriving business that boasts an annual turnover of more than $13m and employs a full time staff of 26.

The Co-operative was set up to meet the needs of the rural community and to provide a range of goods at competitive prices.

Those goals are still part of the Co-operative’s agenda 50 years later.

To meet those requirements the range of products sold has been greatly expanded with the business also offering advisory services to ensure clients achieve maximum efficiency from their farms.

Twenty years ago the decision was also made to provide goods and services for all Wagga Wagga and district residents which involved expanding their clothing range, liquor department, hardware and animal health division.

The Riverina Co-operative is owned by its 10,000 members who not only benefit through the competitive prices charged but also receive a discount at the point of sale.

By far the biggest decision made by the Directors during the last 50 years was to move the business from its location at the “Top End” of Baylis Street in the city’s Central Business District.

Despite the acquisition of several adjoining buildings and several internal renovations, growth was restricted.

A search began for a new green field location which would allow the Co-operative to expand and to introduce new services.

That search found a block of land in Moorong Street which was considered the perfect location.

It provided excellent access for its clients living in areas south, east and west of the city. Those living to the north also were given easy access following the completion of the Gobba Bridge.

The Directors had the foresight to sign an option to purchase an adjoining block of land in Moorong Street with that option taken up even before the initial building was completed.

The results of the move to Moorong Street were spectacular. Within just 18 months turnover had climbed from $6.4m to $9m.

Further land has since been purchased to allow for future growth.

As part of its expansion the Co-operative saw the need to create a hub of like minded businesses to provide a “one stop shop” for people involved in the rural industry.

With this in mind “The Co-op Complex” was built and opened in 2004.

Today this complex houses Oamps Insurance Brokers, Bidgee Pumps, H Francis & Co Stock and Station Agents and AGA Grain as well as a convenient coffee shop, Moorish Café.

Two other tenants are located on the mezzanine level of the main building – Viterra and Rodwells Stock and Station Agents.

From those small beginnings 50 years ago much has been achieved.

Today the Co-operative not only caters for many of the needs of its members and customers but is well placed to service those changing needs over the next 50 years and beyond.