Located on the western edge of Manitoba's Red River Valley, Winkler is a growing community with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It’s also home to the Winker Co-op, which has been a pillar of the community since 1942.
Winkler Co-op’s beloved fashion department now has its own location and carries local and international brands. Initially a part of their grocery store section, customers soon began requesting more clothing items and the fashion department eventually grew.
“We’re about an hour-and-a-half south of Winnipeg and 15 minutes from the North Dakota border,” says Fashions Supervisor Amanda Heide, “The farming industry is strong here, and the town is full of hardworking, family-oriented people with a business mindset. If we see a need, we make it happen!”
The Winkler Co-op carries all the staples and has welcomed regular customers for decades.
“The fashion department of Winkler Co-op used to be attached to a seniors’ complex, and a lot of people would have to walk through our area to get to the grocery store,” says Amanda, “We have many regulars who now make the effort to drop by! One lady comes by every Wednesday to see us.”
The next time you’re in Winkler, there are plenty of local spots that are worth a visit. Drop by Whitecap for the tastiest coffee and baked goods in the area, or grab lunch at King’s Deli Market & Eatery (they’re known for their delicious soups and sandwiches).
“For supper, definitely visit Flavours of Mexico,” says Amanda, ‘It’s owned by the Rodriguez family and their Chimichangas are amazing.”
Like so many other cozy, entrepreneurial towns across the country, the Winkler Co-op’s neighbourhood is a supportive community. Shops cross-promote and recommend one another if something isn’t available at their own business.
Since they are located right downtown, the shop is at the heart of the action. If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss their annual Winkler Harvest Festival. A fairground and farmers market provides fun for the whole family, while music lovers can enjoy weekend concerts.
“We meet our customers where they are,” says Amanda, “We’re working on adding even trendier fashion goods to our lineup, but we have what everyone needs and it’s great to welcome such lovely people to the store.”
The Winkler Co-op is just one of the many businesses across the country we are so proud to be a part of.
“Northbound is a great fit for the co-op because it really has that ‘grown in the prairies’ atmosphere,” says Amanda, “The vast majority of Winkler residents have cabins or spend a lot of time camping, so the brand is really popular with locals!”
