the chippenham co-operative society was founded in 1890. over the years it played an increasing role in the local economy, becoming deeply involved in agriculture and dairy farming, and for most of the 20th century its department store dominated the lower end of the high street. however, by the 1960s the business was facing increasing competition and found it necessary to join forces with other co-operatives, first locally, then nationally, forming the co-operative group. in the 1980s, this flagship store was sold and became a wilko branch, but the co-operative group diversified into other areas, such as insurance and funeral services, which still operate through many local branches.