Co-op’s AGM disrupted by its own members

Fast-growing chickens, known as Frankenchickens, endure painful lameness, heart attacks, and muscle diseases. Bred to grow too big, too fast, all in the name of profit, these birds have suffering coded into their DNA.

That’s why we’re demanding Co-op sign up to the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC) and stop using fast-growing breeds of chicken. At last year’s AGM, 96% of voting members agreed, voting in favour of the motion. But Co-op has still not acted.

At this year’s AGM, some Co-op members decided enough was enough.

While a group of frustrated Co-op members protested outside the venue, a small number bravely and peacefully interrupted the AGM itself, taking to the stage to ask Co-op to do the right thing and commit to the BCC.

Among the protesters inside the venue was The Humane League UK volunteer, Tabitha. We caught up with her after the event to ask her some questions.

Why did you choose to protest at Co-op’s AGM?

Democracy matters to me and I abhor cruelty. I was at the AGM last year and, after 96% of members voted to end the use of Frankenchickens, I naively thought the Co-op would listen. I’m appalled they didn’t.

I’ve spent all year leafleting about this issue and know that the many people I’ve spoken to expect me to act.

I’ve also grown up with pet chickens and know them well so I owe it to them to stop this cruelty.

What were your highlights on the day?

I was inside the AGM and it was fantastic to be a part of this.

We held up banners and walked to the stage while The Humane League UK’s Managing Director, Sean, spoke respectfully and politely but with all the facts.

When we were escorted out, the other members in the room clapped. I felt proud that we were representing their wishes and that they agreed with our cause. We had no choice after the Co-op had ignored the issue all year.

I loved that we’re polite and respectful, while at the same time getting our point across succinctly. The real highlight was being part of that.

What message do you have for Co-op?

Simply that the Co-op needs to do the right thing. Other businesses like M&S, KFC, and Waitrose have so it has no real excuses.

I’d like decision makers to spend time with a chicken, just like my companion animals, and get to know them. Then look at the footage of Frankenchickens and make an informed decision to stop the use of these poor birds.

Co-op says it is at the forefront of chicken welfare and its own brands are not tested on animals. But the disconnect between that and using Frankenchickens doesn’t make sense to me as a member and animal lover.

What would you say to anyone considering becoming a volunteer or coming to an event?

I’d say give it a go. The Humane League UK volunteers are so welcoming and have become my friends.

I feel so content after an event, and happy that I’ve done something useful and informed people about the plight of animals raised for food. So many people thank us for letting them know the facts and are grateful.