Medford Cooperative holds annual membership meeting

The Medford Cooperative, Inc., held its Annual Meeting on Thursday, May 23 at the Stetsonville Community Center.

Over 150 members were in attendance and were provided an overview of 2023 performance and key updates from each business division.

During the meeting, there were two elections to the Board of Directors. Ryan Klussendorf was re-elected for an additional term. After 25 years of overall service on the Board of Directors, Joe Tomandl recently announced his retirement leaving one more seat open. Jon Knoll was elected by the members to take the vacated position.

As a Cooperative, it is important to evolve by investing in infrastructure and new capabilities to service the needs of its members. The Cooperative highlighted key investments across each business division.

In Ag Services, they have invested in improved facilities, new and more efficient equipment, and added professionals such as a nutritionist and an agronomist to help provide producers recommendations to help increase overall productivity the operation. In Energy Services, they invested in a fuel tanker to be able to deliver full tankers of refined fuel directly to customers and tank monitors to improve the overall customer experience. In Retail Services, they have invested in expanded selections, launched new formats, and new digital capabilities.

Connecting with each community continues to be an important pillar. Medford Cooperative supported nonprofit organizations at the highest level in its history during 2023. This support takes the form of donations, products and volunteer hours by employees. One notable effort is the Convenience Store Pride Pump Program, where the Cooperative has donated over $27,000 to local schools and libraries. In total, over $70,000 was donated to over 250 non-profit organizations and local clubs in the communities served.

Customers and members are at the center of Medford Cooperative. It was announced during the meeting that $250,000 will be distributed to their shareholders in the form of cash and stock this year. Medford Cooperative has given back over $17 million dollars to its patrons over the last ten years.

The Medford Cooperative was formed in 1911 and is proud to continue to remain independent. When people buy local and support small businesses, it helps build a stronger community. For more information on becoming a member, stop by any Medford Cooperative business location to apply.

Joe Tomandl, retired board member was recently honored and recognized by the Medford Cooperative for his dedication and service to members, employees and community.