Community get-togethers – A June filled with community magic

Throughout June, our Member Activators hosted and supported over 130 community get‑togethers across the UK, creating moments of connection, joy, and belonging for our member owners. These gatherings took place everywhere, from our stores and local parks to community centres. Each one focused around something simple and powerful: sharing great food and bringing people together. 

In our stores, members sampled our delicious summer range and picked up easy, affordable recipes they could make at home and share with their friends and families. Out in parks and school and community settings, Member Activators supported The Big Lunch, community celebrations and summer festivals. 

Last year, members told us the issues they were facing were the pressure of the cost of living and that they wanted to see their communities thriving again. Our community get‑togethers have become a simple but meaningful way to respond to those concerns. By sharing quick, cost‑effective recipes and creating welcoming spaces where people can meet, chat, and enjoy food together, these events ease everyday pressures while building the kind of connections that make communities feel alive again.

Belchford’s Community Celebration Big Lunch 

Melanie Neal, Member Activator for Lincolnshire, was approached by a Co‑op Member to help host a Big Lunch. The ask was to help recreate a sense of community in her new home in Belchford. With that in mind, Melanie worked with local members to plan the event. Melanie provided delicious Co‑op products alongside games and conversation starter cards.

Compost, biodegradable pots, and seeds were provided so people could plant ingredients for a “grow your own” tomato, carrot, and coriander soup, complete with instructions and a recipe to take home. A community bunting project celebrated our partnership with the Royal Foundation to inspire Everyday Magic,  for the whole family, at the outdoor event.

As the day unfolded, people of all ages arrived with deck chairs, picnics, homemade dishes, and huge smiles. Some came alone, others brought three generations of family. Some had lived in Lincolnshire all their lives, while others had recently moved into the village. By the end of the afternoon over 40 people and – even one Shetland pony – had gathered to share food, stories, and laughter. 

What June has shown so clearly is that there is much more to Co-op Membership. It’s about belonging to a collective that cares and give you the opportunity to have a voice to make a difference. It’s about supporting local causes, easing everyday pressures, and creating spaces where people feel welcome and connected. Every recipe shared, every conversation started, and every event supported reflects the heart of what Co‑op stands for.

Find out more about our Member Activators or contact the Member Activator in your region by using our online directory.