Co-op Policies

A co-operative is people - and our co-operative is constantly striving to ensure that our policies and practices are in the best interest of the consumers we serve, and designed to maintain the co-operative as an effective consumer service in the market place.

Pricing

Our policy is to maintain competitive prices on all products and services. This does not mean that our prices on every item will always be as low as the lowest of our competitors.

Hassle-Free Guarantee

Your Co-op puts every effort into providing you with high quality products and excellent service. If, for some reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, return it to your Co-op. When you leave, you’ll be satisfied - we guarantee it. At the Co-op, getting satisfaction is hassle-free. Guaranteed!

Your Co-op Number

Your membership application for shares is numbered and this is your Co-op number - to be quoted every time you make a purchase. It enables the Co-op to keep an accurate record of your patronage through the year for patronage allocation purposes.

Responsibilities of a Member

Different members will have a variety of interests in their Co-operative. However, for the Co-operative to effectively function as a Co-operative, each member should be carrying the majority of the following responsibilities.

1. Patronize the Co-operative.
2. Participate in electing and appraising the performance of the directors.
3. Approve overall objectives and policies of the Co-operative.
4. Assess the performance of the organization.
5. Communicate complaints, suggestions, comments and needs to the Co-operative.
6. Assist in amending the bylaws.
7. Help finance the Co-operative.
8. Participate in activities of the Co-operative.
9. Explain or discuss the Co-operative with other members and potential members.

Essential Principles of a Co-operative

1. Open and voluntary membership.
2. Democratic control, with on member having one vote.
3. Limited Interest on Capital.
4. Return of surplus to members.
5. Co-operative education.
6. Co-operation among Coo-operatives.
7. Bylaws available upon request.

“OTTER CO-OP” has been servicing the Fraser Valley since 1922, providing the Canadian Alternative in the market place. Otter Co-op members over the last 5 years have received over 10 million dollars in patronage shares and merchandise/cash back.