Young Co-op Set to Transition to Riverbend

Young, SK – On the evening of November 26, more than 95% of Young Co-operative members in attendance at a special meeting voted in favour of dissolving one of Saskatchewan’s oldest operating Co-operatives. While members voted to authorize dissolution, the outcome ensures that the local Co-op operation will transition to Riverbend Co-operative, a rural member-owned Co-op based in Central Saskatchewan.

“It has been a priority of our Board to preserve a location of business in town, protect employment, and above all, protect the equity our members have built over the last 100-plus years,” Meeting Chair and Young Cooperative’s Board President Jarrett Currie shared prior to the important vote.

In discussions with members before the meeting and vote, Young Co-op’s directors outlined what guided their recommendation and how they evaluated the options available to ensure local services could continue.

“We explored two paths: amalgamation and dissolution. After discussions with Riverbend, we felt dissolution and an asset purchase agreement was the best path for our members and our community,” Currie added. “We feel Riverbend shares our values. They understand small communities, they invest in them, and they have already been a strong partner to us through the fuel agreement. This relationship has been nothing but positive.”

Following the vote, Riverbend Co-op’s CEO Greg Sarvis expressed gratitude for the trust Young’s members placed in Riverbend.

“We are honoured by the confidence the Young membership has placed in us,” Greg Sarvis shared. “Our commitment is to preserve local services, support employees, and ensure the Young community remains part of the Co-op family for years to come.”

Greg Sarvis reaffirmed that residents should expect continuity in local service, supported by the existing team.

“A key part of our commitment to the community is also to the employees who serve the Young every day. All Young Co-op employees have been offered and have accepted roles with Riverbend Co-op, ensuring full continuity of service and a smooth transition for customers."

Transition works is now underway. Pending the approval from the Registrar of Co-operative’s office, Riverbend is preparing to assume operational responsibilities of the Young location beginning January 26, 2026.

“Decisions like this aren’t easy. Our Co-op is one of the oldest in the province, built through decades of hard work, volunteers, and commitment,” Jarett Currie shared. “We should be proud of the condition we are passing our Co-op to Riverbend. This decision reflects the will of the membership.”