ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses a careful investigation which was made of the measure of success attained by co-operative societies that had already established branches in poor neighbourhoods, as in Bristol and Plymouth, and also of the special obstacles which the customary organization of the store seemed to place in the way of the poorer classes of consumers. The store became in an exceptional way a centre of fellowship, and the hall was the scene of a succession of meetings, club gatherings, concerts and discussions, such as one might expect to find at an ordinary social settlement. Chances for saving were multiplied. The spread of the 'poor store' is not, however, likely to be rapid, unless the flame of a new enthusiasm and of a new determination to realize old hopes burn into the hearts of large numbers of those who guide the movement both at headquarters and in the societies.
