Businesses hail World Capital accolade

Businesses in the borough have given an enthusiastic response to the decision to make Rochdale the World Capital of Co-operatives.

The International Co-operative Alliance made the announcement at its conference in Mexico last week in recognition of Rochdale’s historic role in the Co-operative Movement.

Two successful family businesses have been talking about what the accolade means for them and the borough.

Phil Ewbank is chairman of Commercial Contract Engineers Ltd - who provide a one-stop-shop on servicing and accident repair for a wide range of vehicles - and the Rochdale Development Agency.

He said: “The decision is wonderful news and a fitting recognition of the part the borough has played in the development of co-operation.”

“In the current financial climate anything that raises the profile of an area is of crucial importance and so to receive such a prestigious honour will be an invaluable aid to attracting new investment to Rochdale.

“We are proud to be located in the borough and believe that, with positive developments such as this and the current town centre regeneration project, Rochdale has an exciting and dynamic future. We look forward to being a part of it.”

Helen Senior, Finance Director at Jackson, Jackson and Sons Ltd, who provide an extensive range of construction services, said: “The Co-operative Movement symbolises values such as fairness and decency that we bring to our own business dealings.

“For Rochdale to be the World Capital of Co-operatives is both a tribute to the borough’s proud heritage and a symbol of the positive future we are all determined to achieve.”

“Having this type of international recognition will give the borough a key edge when it comes to persuading other companies to locate here which in turn will generate jobs and prosperity.”

Rochdale Borough Council leader Councillor Colin Lambert said: “To be recognised in this way is a great honour and provides us with an excellent opportunity to promote the borough nationally and internationally, especially with 2012 having been declared International Year of Co-operatives.”

“Many successful businesses such as Contract Engineers and Jackson and Jackson already know that our borough is a great place to be based and we are determined to spread that message as far and wide as possible.”