Local Co-op members in Winkler and Lowe Farm will vote on an amalgamation proposal later this month.

Winkler General Manager Evan Toews says the partnership would be a great fit for two like-minded Co-ops. "As both Co-ops share the vision to impact our communities, this new partnership will continue to carry this out through service, relationships, and generosity."

The co-op amalgamation proposal is aimed at sharing resources and maintaining growth. Members of an amalgamated Co-op could use one Co-op number in five communities and 23 locations including five cardlocks, six fuel retail locations, Coop@Home, three Agro Centres among others.

"The cornerstone of our Co-ops is our strong and rooted principles," Toews says. "The commitment Co-op has to their communities will only be strengthened as a result of partnering together."

Matthew Almey, General Manager of Lowe Farm Co-op says the timing was right. "It's not that we were needing to (amalgamate) but that we both bring assets and strengths to each other."

A vote will take place in Lowe Farm November 26 and in Winkler November 27.