There will be no name change for the Humboldt Co-operative. That decision came down by vote of its members who attended the Humboldt Co-op’s Annual General Meeting on Tuesday night at the Legion Hall. 

Humboldt Co-operative Ltd. operates food, fuel and agriculture outlets in Humboldt, Lanigan and Drake. The Board of the Humboldt Co-op had proposed a name change to Keystone Co-operative for its operation. Humboldt Co-op General Manager Joe Von Doellen explained it was an attempt to be more inclusive for members and staff from centres outside of Humboldt. A statement presented to the members outlined rationale for the choice. The report stated, “As Humboldt Co-op has grown and expanded, we are no longer just in the community of Humbodt. We currently have assets in both Lanigan and Drake and feel this name change is more inclusive. We believe that it is important in every way to make our employees and members feel included, and that starts with a unique name that means the same to all.”

The brief went on to say that “Keystone” was selected as being representative of strength and foundation, as in the central stone of an arch which locks the structure together. 

During discussion, members expressed concern that the name is represented in several brands including the renowned pipeline, an RV dealership, the recreation complex in Brandon, MB, among others. Some questioned the necessity and expense of a name change to a well-established brand location. Others inquired as to whether different names had been considered.

Von Doellen explained that the Board and staff had deliberated on the name change and had considered other options. He also noted that the expense in coming up with the name and executing the rebrand was negligible. 

In the end, the proposed name change was narrowly voted down 22 to 19. Following the meeting, Von Doellen said the Board would take in the new information to see what direction it would go. 

As for the fiscal health of the organization itself, all indicators were that the Humboldt Co-op was in a solid position and had once again posted strong earnings. Bolstered by strong ag pricing and improved margins, the Co-op showed record sales. Earnings from its food stores were robust and it moved ahead with new facilities and equipment. An agronomist has been added to the ag side, providing greater supports for local farmers. A new chemical warehouse and fertilizer floater were among the additions, and work continues in preparation for the new retail liquor outlet adjacent to the food store. 

Board members caution that the margins on products are changing and that inflation in the coming year is likely to take a bite out of earnings, but growth potential remains. When queried about future amalgamations with other regional Co-ops, Von Doellen said that Humboldt Co-operative Ltd. was not in discussions with anyone at this time.