In a time when political divisions and economic uncertainty threaten to divide people, worker-owned cooperatives are choosing solidarity and cooperation.
The worker-owners of La Siembra Cooperative Inc. and the members of the Equal Exchange Worker Cooperative have voted unanimously to merge, creating a unique model of international worker cooperation. This integration follows the path set by global cooperative networks like Mondragon, which has led the way in cross-border worker ownership and democratic governance. It also builds on the 10-year MOU between the two cooperatives, which have shared a long-standing commercial and solidarity relationship as fair trade worker co-ops.
As part of this transition, La Siembra Inc. has been established in Canada as a wholly owned subsidiary of Equal Exchange. Members of La Siembra Cooperative are now also worker-owners of the global Equal Exchange cooperative, joining fellow worker-owners in the United States, the United Kingdom, and the former Oke Banana, which is now part of Equal Exchange US’s Produce Division. Together, they will operate across six commodities—coffee, cocoa, sugar, tea, fruits, and nuts—supported by an international supply chain and manufacturing partners that empower small-scale farmers worldwide.
In Canada, La Siembra Inc. will continue to own and distribute the Camino brand, upholding the mission, vision, values, and quality that have guided the business and brand for over 25 years. As the first importers of certified cocoa and sugar in North America, Camino remains a pioneering Canadian brand, rooted in fair trade, worker ownership, and the social solidarity economy.
This merger marks a significant step forward in the global worker cooperative movement, reinforcing the benefits of democratic ownership across borders. By integrating La Siembra and Equal Exchange, both cooperatives advance a shared vision of economic democracy, global solidarity, and building fair food economies for smallholder farms.
As part of this integration, La Siembra Inc. and Equal Exchange are committed to supporting retail, grocery, and distributor partners who play a critical role in moving volume for producers. We will ensure they have the resources and products needed for continued sustainable growth. This merger will also provide increased value for consumers, offering products that align with their values of fair trade, organic and regenerative farming practices, a commitment to supply chain sustainability, and the “better for you” category, which prioritizes healthier and more sustainable food systems.
As global challenges call for cooperation, La Siembra Inc. and Equal Exchange stand united in their commitment to international solidarity, democratic governance, and economic justice. By fostering cooperation among cooperatives and embracing alternative trading models, they are demonstrating that cooperatives can thrive across borders, creating a more equitable future for people and the planet.
For more information please contact:
Kelly Storie
President, La Siembra Inc.
A division of Equal Exchange Cooperative
https://shop.equalexchange.coop/pages/about-us
