ICMIF member Co-operators, a leading Canadian financial services cooperative, has officially opened its new state-of-the-art corporate headquarters in Guelph, Ontario. The environmentally sustainable building, designed to support employee well-being and reduce carbon emissions, consolidates five southern Ontario locations into one 226,000 sq. ft. facility. The new office is part of Co-operators’ larger commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint.
The building, which began welcoming employees in August 2024, is on track to achieve a series of prestigious certifications for its green design, including LEED Gold, Boma Best, and Zero Carbon Building Design certification, reflecting its alignment with Co-operators’ climate goals. Already a carbon-neutral organisation since 2020, Co-operators is aiming to cut 45% of its operational emissions by 2030, with a target of net zero by 2040.
One of the standout features of the new headquarters is its all-electric design, which eliminates direct carbon emissions from on-site sources. A rooftop solar array will generate about 9% of the building’s energy needs, while LED lighting, electrochromic windows, and high-efficiency water source technology will further reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Beyond its green credentials, the headquarters is also a showcase for employee wellness. The building features a range of communal spaces including indoor and outdoor fitness facilities, walking trails, patios, and a sport court. Co-operators has also incorporated natural elements, such as moss walls, Guelph limestone features, and artwork throughout the facility, to create a welcoming and collaborative environment.
The new office is more than a building — it’s a step toward a sustainable future. “This headquarters is a testament to our dedication to serving our clients, our member organisations, our community, and our planet,” said Paul Hanna, Executive Vice President, Member Relations and Corporate Services, Co-operators. “It sets a new standard for innovative and sustainable business practices.”
The design of the headquarters was developed in partnership with interior design firm HOK and NEO Architecture (Canada), and includes features that highlight Co-operators’ local roots and its forward-thinking approach to sustainability.
With this new facility, Co-operators says it is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable business practices, while creating a space that promotes both employee well-being and environmental responsibility.
