PCC 2002 Annual Report

A message to our members from your board

Dear fellow co-op members,

I am honored to be contributing to this report for the first time as Board Chair and am pleased to be able to do so at the end of such a successful year for the co-op. Due to an outstanding performance by our CEO Tracy Wolpert, the fantastic dedication of PCC staff and the tremendous support and enthusiasm of our members, 2002 sales increased by more than $7 million over 2001 figures.

This financial stability allowed the board to consider the future. As you know, the board adopted a system of governance through policies that allows us to concentrate not on the day-to-day running of the stores, but on shaping the vision of the cooperative.

In 2002 we conducted a member survey that told us what issues are important to you. This greatly helped in finalizing a set of Ends Policies. These are policies that articulate the co-op's mission and serve as our CEO's road map. We will continue to work on an integrated vision of a sustainable future for the co-op that combines our respect for the environment and our aspiration for social equity with the responsibility entrusted in us to keep PCC economically sound.

The survey was only one element of our effort to communicate with you. In October, we instituted "Board in the Store" events where each board member spent time talking with staff and members in at least two stores. For the second time, in addition to our annual meeting, we conducted a semi-annual meeting to garner more member input. And, as always, the board reviewed all correspondence and listened to members who attended our meetings.

We have appreciated everyone's participation and are counting on you more than ever to help us with our work. Be part of your cooperative's future!

Chantal Stevens, Chair
PCC Board of Trustees