140 Years Legacoop

On 9 and 10 October, 2026 in Milan, Legacoop – National League of Cooperatives and Mutuals, celebrated its 140th anniversary within the framework of the Biennale on the Cooperative Economy, which was attended by 1,000 cooperative leaders from the Legacoop network. During the event, the organisation presented its manifesto of the cooperative economy – a comprehensive vision of the contribution of cooperatives to the development of the country.

Welcoming messages were received by Pope Leo XIV, the President of Italy Sergio Mattarella and the Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The forum was attended by ministers, the Mayor of Milan Giuseppe Sala, the President of the Lombardy Region Attilio Fontana and representatives of leading political parties. This high institutional representation is a recognition of the significant contribution of Legacoop to Italy’s economic and social development.

Prominent representatives of the academic community shared their views on the further development of the cooperative model in the ever-complex geopolitical situation in the world. Particular attention was given to the role of women and youth in cooperative governance.

Prof. Petar Stefanov – President of Consumer Cooperatives Worldwide (CCW) actively participated in the discussion panels and exchanged views with the Mayor of Milan, representatives of the institutions and MEPs from the Lombardy region.

With a warm welcome Prof. Stefanov presented to the President of Legacoop Simone Gamberini an honorary plaque "COOP" for Legacoop’s contribution to a more sustainable and inclusive future for all.

The cumlimation of the two-day Bienalle was the official ceremony of unveiling a memorial plaque in front of the building where Legacoop was founded on 10 October, 1886. The ceremony was attended by Simone Gamberini – Legacoop President, Attilio Dadda - Legacoop Lombardia President, Ariel Guarco – ICA President, Prof. Stefanov – CCW President and Elena Buscemi – President of the Municipal Council of Milan.