The Society operated three convenience stores in the Holme Valley villages of New Mill, Thongsbridge and Wooldale.

It was founded as the Wooldale Industrial and Equitable Co-operative Society[2] in 1886, changing its name in 1989.

It also had agreements with the Co-operative Group for stock distribution and promotions.

This would have reduced costs and increased turnover by adding two further stores to its portfolio and combining administrative operations.

These talks did not result positively and in the spring of 2007, the Society approached Rochdale-based United Co-operatives on the possibilities of a merger.