Calgary Co-op Celebrates Grand Re-Opening of its Strathmore Centre

February 12, 2004, Calgary, Alberta - The Calgary Co-operative Association Limited will celebrate the grand re-opening of another newly renovated centre today. The grand re-opening ceremony for the Strathmore Calgary Co-op Centre will take place at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 12 at 320 Second Street in Strathmore, Alberta.

"The loyalty and continuing support of our Strathmore members has enabled us to undertake this major renovation," says Milford Sorensen, chief executive officer for Calgary Co-op. "We are extremely excited about the renovations, which will provide our valued customers with enhanced services, greater selection and a modern, attractive, fresh centre in which to shop," adds Sorensen.

The Strathmore Centre has undergone a complete interior renovation since July 2003. The renovations include new interior décor package, a new marketplace bistro, an expanded fresh produce area, an increased bakery/deli area to offer greater selection and service for member-owners, energy efficient frozen food and dairy cases, a new Kiddies Korral, new checkouts and customer service office for easier access. The pharmacy was relocated within the centre to offer more health and beauty care items, greater privacy, and an area for health and wellness counseling for customers. The west entrance was also upgraded, and the east entrance closed to make better use of the interior space, provide better security and deliver a larger shopping area for customers.

The redesign and renovation of this centre represents part of Calgary Co-op's five-year strategic development and enhancement plan to upgrade its existing locations. "The centre remained fully operational during the renovation and the grand re-opening celebration is to thank our members for their loyal support during this major renovation project", says Sorensen. "The renovations are evidence of Calgary Co-op's long-term commitment to the Strathmore community and specifically to the revitalization of the downtown core", concludes Sorensen.

Locally owned and operated, Calgary Co-op is one of the largest retail co-operatives in North America with assets of $272 million, sales of $750 million, 390,000 members and 3,600 employees. In addition to its head office in Calgary, Alberta, Calgary Co-op operates eighteen retail shopping centres, 22 gas bars, 11 liquor stores and 11 travel agencies in Calgary, Airdrie and Strathmore, Alberta.

For information, please contact:

Milford Sorensen, Chief Executive Officer
Calgary Co-operative Association Limited
2735 - 39 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 7C7
Telephone: 403-219-6025

Donna Burn, Director Member and Public Relations
Calgary Co-operative Association Limited
2735 - 39 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 7C7
Telephone: 403-219-6025, ext. 6258
Cell: 403-816-7419