The wholesales initially acted as buying agents on behalf of their member co-operatives, but would eventually build warehouses for inventory. The amalgamation with the Consumers Co-operative Refinery Limited (a co-operative formed by eight enterprising farmers who believed they could produce and distribute their own gas) further strengthened FCL.

Assets would be acquired and divested to suit the changing needs of what would become the Co-operative Retailing System. Today, FCL’s business is centred primarily on four areas: agriculture, energy, food and home and building supplies. Advancements in technology, innovation and practice have changed the way FCL does business; however, FCL remains focused on co-operative values and being relevant for its member-owner retail co-operatives and consumers for years to come.