Rochdale Pioneers open their cooperative

Background. The Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers was an early consumers' co-operative founded in 1844. It is recognized as one of the first to pay a patronage dividend, forming the basis for the modern co-operative movement. Although other co-operatives preceded it, the Rochdale Pioneers became the prototype for societies in Great Britain.

Opening of the Store. On 21 December 1844, the Pioneers opened their store in Toad Lane, Rochdale. The initial inventory was very meagre, consisting only of butter, sugar, flour, and oatmeal. The store was rented at 31 Toad Lane, where the Pioneers operated until 1867.

Rochdale Principles. The Rochdale Pioneers are famous for designing the Rochdale Principles, a set of principles of co-operation that provide the foundation for co-ops worldwide. These principles included provisions for purchasing or renting land to be cultivated by members who were unemployed or poorly remunerated.