Vision and Principles

Our Vision

BDRC envisions an India where independent retailers thrive through collective strength while maintaining complete autonomy over their individual businesses.

We see a future where:

  • Neighbourhood stores have access to digital tools without surrendering control
  • Retailers participate in supplier discussions from a position of collective strength
  • Working capital flows to independent businesses through cooperative partnerships
  • Technology serves the retailer, not external interests
  • Democratic governance ensures the cooperative remains true to its purpose

This vision respects the vital role of independent retail in India’s economy and society while acknowledging the real challenges these businesses face.

Cooperative Principles

BDRC operates according to established cooperative principles, adapted to the Indian retail context:

1. Voluntary and Open Membership

Membership in BDRC is voluntary and open to all eligible independent retailers who accept the responsibilities of membership.

There is no compulsion to join, and members may exit according to defined procedures. The cooperative does not discriminate based on business size, location, or any other factor beyond the eligibility criteria.

2. Democratic Member Control

BDRC is controlled by its members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions.

Each member has one vote in General Body meetings. Elected representatives serve members’ interests, not their own. Democratic governance is the foundation of cooperative legitimacy.

3. Member Economic Participation

Members contribute equitably to the capital of the cooperative through share capital and, where appropriate, membership fees.

Members decide democratically how surplus is allocated. This may include return to members based on their use of cooperative services, building reserves, or supporting member benefit activities.

The cooperative does not exist to generate commercial returns. Any surplus arises from efficient operations and is handled according to member decisions.

4. Autonomy and Independence

BDRC is an autonomous organization controlled by its members. If the cooperative enters agreements with other organizations or raises capital, this is done on terms that ensure democratic control and maintain cooperative autonomy.

Members themselves retain complete independence in their business decisions. The cooperative exists to enable choice, not dictate behavior.

5. Education, Training, and Information

BDRC provides education and training to members, elected representatives, and staff so they can contribute effectively to cooperative development.

The cooperative informs the general public, particularly young people and opinion leaders, about the nature and benefits of cooperation.

Knowledge sharing and capacity building are central to member empowerment.

6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives

BDRC works with other cooperatives locally, nationally, and internationally to strengthen the cooperative movement and serve members more effectively.

We recognize that cooperation is a principle, not just a structure. Building bridges with other cooperatives reinforces our shared mission.

7. Concern for Community

While focusing on member needs, BDRC recognizes that strong members contribute to strong communities.

Independent retailers provide employment, serve local needs, and maintain social fabric. Supporting independent retail supports community wellbeing.

The cooperative encourages members to engage constructively with their communities while maintaining focus on member interests.

Member Autonomy: The Core Principle

Beyond traditional cooperative principles, BDRC emphasizes a fundamental commitment: member autonomy in business decisions.

The cooperative does not:

  • Mandate which suppliers members use
  • Require participation in any specific commercial activity
  • Control inventory or procurement decisions
  • Dictate pricing or product selection
  • Interfere in member business operations

The cooperative does:

  • Provide tools and information for members to use as they choose
  • Facilitate collective discussions where members wish to participate
  • Enable access to services on an opt-in basis
  • Respect member independence at all times

This commitment distinguishes BDRC from commercial platforms that extract control in exchange for services.

Transparency and Accountability

BDRC commits to transparent operations and clear accountability:

  • Regular financial reporting to members
  • Open governance processes
  • Clear documentation of decisions
  • Regular audits as required by regulation
  • Accessible complaint and grievance mechanisms

Members have the right to information about how their cooperative operates and the right to hold leadership accountable.

Ethical Conduct

BDRC expects ethical behavior from members, elected representatives, and staff:

  • Honest dealings in all cooperative activities
  • Respect for democratic processes and decisions
  • Confidentiality where required
  • Avoidance of conflicts of interest
  • Commitment to cooperative principles

The cooperative’s reputation depends on the integrity of all participants.

Adaptation and Learning

While principles provide direction, BDRC recognizes that implementation requires adaptation to Indian retail realities.

The cooperative remains committed to learning from experience, listening to members, and adjusting operations to serve member needs effectively.

Principles guide us, but member needs define our work.