Opened in early 2005, Coopers is a skilful conversion of a former Co-operative store which was purpose built in Guiseley in 1924
Typical of its genre, the building comprised a dedicated butcher's shop as well as a general grocery department. Upstairs, as well as a store room in which bulk goods such as flour were processed for retail use, the building was designed with a Hall or Function Room including a stage and maple dance floor.
Such a room was a common feature of Cooperative Society premises, whose origins are steeped in the local community.
The premises still retain this magnificent upstairs function room, complete with stage, which has been lovingly restored.
The "Co-op", founded in Rochdale in the 1850's, also had close links with the early socialist movement. The objects of the Co-operative movement were "to improve the social and domestic conditions of its members".
Interest was paid on members' shares and remaining profits were distributed as a dividend -"the divi"- amongst purchasers in proportion to the money spent
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The downstairs bar area retains some of the original features from the co-operative era, including some very impressive butcher's tile mosaics and, on the staircase to the first floor and toilet areas, much of the original 1920s tiling.
As well as a spacious bar offering food seven days a week, the upstairs function room doubles as a dining room on busy evenings, has hosted a variety of music events and is available for private hire for weddings, christenings etc by prior arrangement.
Situated on the main A65 route from Leeds to Skipton, there is a large public car park opposite and Coopers is only 5 minutes' walk from Guiseley railway station, serving both Leeds and Bradford.
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