At our fifth Robert Owen Day, we explore Community Wealth Building through 3 real-world case studies. Learning how we move from decline to renewal and revitalise our communities. Registration here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-transformation-of-a-declining-high-street-co-operative-solutions-tickets-1985667971355
A theme prompted by https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/11/uk-high-streets-reform-shops-closing-hope which argues the emptying of high streets has reached a crisis point, with hundreds of shops closing, including major brands, and notes the political implications of this decline. You are welcome to join us.
About David Smith
A lifelong co-operative activist at all levels of the movement, including the Co-op Group Main Board. Public service includes Government Food Adviser; UK Healthcare Regulator.
David founded the first Community Law Centre in Wales and directed the first EC funded Wales Anti-Poverty Programme: pioneering co-operative & place making community initiatives: including local Co-op Development Agencies, Care & Repair, and multipurpose Social Care Co-operatives.
Founded Cardiff Student Community Action, Welsh Food Alliance & Wales Progressive Co-operators. Robert Owen Memorial Museum Trustee. Director, Sheffield Co-op Development Group. Former Lecturer, Gwent Tertiary College.
Graduate Ruskin College, Oxford and UC Cardiff + PGCE, MA (European Human Resource Management) Keele; Professional Food & Management qualifications.
