ALMERIA, January 26, 2026— Cooperative banks have been reaffirmed as vital engines of Europe’s economy following the 57th General Assembly of the European Association of Cooperative Banks [EACB], held in Almería and hosted by the Cajamar Cooperative Group.
Bringing together more than 30 representatives from across Europe, the Assembly highlighted the strength, resilience and growing influence of the cooperative banking model at a time of significant economic and regulatory change. Discussions focused on strategic priorities for the association, alongside key EU policy developments shaping the future operating environment for cooperative banks.
The gathering also marked the 50th anniversary of Cajamar’s Las Palmerillas Experimental Station, a globally recognised centre for innovation in greenhouse agriculture. The occasion was underscored by a keynote address from the Governor of the Bank of Spain, José Luis Escrivá, who praised the cooperative banking model for its proven resilience and its essential role in financing Spain’s economy, particularly in sectors most vulnerable to financial exclusion.
Members endorsed several important governance decisions during the Assembly, reflecting the association’s continued growth and renewal.
Viviana Mitrache-Rimbault of Crédit Agricole S.A. was appointed to the EACB Board, while CrelanCo was formally admitted as a new member, further broadening the association’s European footprint.
In addition, Prof. Małgorzata Iwanicz-Drozdowska of KZBS was elected Chair of the Cooperative Identity Forum, bringing deep academic insight and sector expertise to the role.
Looking ahead to 2026, members exchanged views on policy priorities including agricultural finance, sustainability reporting and the simplification of the EU prudential framework for banks.
Throughout these discussions, cooperative banks reaffirmed their shared commitment to preserving diversity within Europe’s banking landscape and to upholding an inclusive, member-focused approach rooted in local communities.
EACB President Priscille Szeradzki described the Assembly as a moment of reflection and renewed ambition.
She noted that cooperative banks are well positioned to contribute to debates on European sovereignty and economic resilience, while continuing to deliver banking services aligned with the real needs of citizens and businesses.
The Assembly also paid tribute to several long-serving figures stepping down after years of dedicated service, including Isabelle Ferrand, CEO of Crédit Mutuel Group in France, Robin Fieth, CEO of the UK’s Building Societies Association, and Volker Heegemann, Head of Legal at the EACB, who retires after more than two decades of advocacy for the sector at EU level.
Concluding the event, EACB CEO Nina Schindler thanked the Cajamar Cooperative Group for hosting the Assembly and highlighted the importance of strong collaboration with Spanish members. She emphasised that such partnerships remain central to the continued success and influence of the cooperative banking movement across Europe.
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