Around the Ram, there are two buildings which have housed the Derby Co-operative Society. This one held their first large department store in the city. Designed by Nottingham born architect Alexander MacPherson (1847 – 1935), this building was erected in 1913 in the baroque style.
Derby was one of the first towns to have a Co-operative Society, following hard on the heels of Rochdale and Leeds. The Derby Society was established in 1850, beginning from small premises in George's Yard, and expanding into the town. What makes them distinct from other businesses is that the Co-ops are owned by and run for, the benefit of their members. The UK Co-op claims to be owned by more than 5 million consumers. They are also founded on strong ethical values and principles; the co-op is still the biggest supporter of Fairtrade in the UK (although Sainsbury's has taken over as the biggest supermarket supporting fairtrade).
Today, the ground floor of the old building is occupied by a number of small retail outlets and the Co-op has moved to the opposite corner of the street, to this art deco building.
If you look carefully, you can spot the Ram in both photos.
Two more buildings where looking up is rewarding.
ReplyDeleteI'm not a fan of art deco at all, but the old Co-op Headquarters is a very attractive building! I wonder why they moved?
ReplyDeleteWow! 5 million owners is quite an achievement!
I still remember my Coop number from the 40's when I shopped (with coupons) for Mum-:53734
ReplyDeletei do love art deco buildings. Might show a few of the London gems
ReplyDeleteI love the old building. What a dynamite co-op.
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