From crisis to community: How Contex turned adversity into opportunity

April 2026

The story of the Argentinian cooperative Contex is a testament to the power of collective action. In the 1990s, the idea of workers forming cooperatives to run factories was not as widespread as it is today. However, the closure of CATTORINI SAIC, a key company in a town in the province of Buenos Aires, left its skilled workers unemployed, many of whom were women. They refused to let their skills go to waste and decided to take matters into their own hands, forming cooperatives and micro-enterprises to continue their work.

Contex began as a small group of former CATTORINI SAIC employees. Initially, they focused on shirt-making. From cutting and sewing to ironing and labelling, the cooperative offered comprehensive shirt-making services known as Fasón. Despite the difficulties of starting from scratch, the cooperative built a reputation for delivering high-quality garments on time and at competitive prices.

Encouraged by its initial success, Contex decided to expand by creating its own brand. This was made possible by a subsidised loan from the Provincial Institute of Associativism and Cooperativism (IPAC) and the Bank of the Province of Buenos Aires. This funding enabled them to set up a fully equipped workshop and source raw materials. One of its members, with experience in marketing, played a crucial role in creating the brand and diversifying its product range.

The journey was not without its difficulties. The Argentine textile industry faced stiff competition from imported garments, and economic instability further limited resources. Nevertheless, Contex persevered, increased its production capacity and built up a loyal customer base. What began with just six members has grown into a strong team of 45 people, aged between 19 and 68, demonstrating the cooperative’s inclusive and empowering environment.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Contex adapted to the crisis by producing surgical kits for healthcare workers. It also collaborated with other local manufacturers to share resources and maintain production. This period highlighted the strength of its cooperative model, which enabled them not only to survive, but to emerge stronger.

Currently, Contex faces significant challenges, including restricted access to finance for the purchase of raw materials and machinery. The years 2024 and 2025 have been marked by recession for the national industry, particularly affecting the textile sector, which has been severely hit by the opening up of imports of (mainly from China and other Asian countries), leading to significant job losses. Similarly, worker cooperatives, both industrial and service-based, are facing a critical situation, as are most small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and even some larger firms. In fact, since the current national government took office, it is estimated that around 22,000 SMEs have closed down.

Despite this adverse context, the Contex cooperative continues to operate without laying off its members, striving to sustain its activity in a market that is shrinking due to the fall in overall consumption. At the same time, it maintains a strategic focus on growth: it seeks to increase its production, expand its marketing network and consolidate its brand. These efforts aim to improve the income and quality of life of its members, whilst ensuring high quality standards for its products and adequate working conditions. Furthermore, the cooperative reinforces its commitment to environmentally sustainable practices and works to recruit qualified staff.

Contex is managed democratically, with decisions taken at the General Assembly, which elects a Supervisory Body and a Board of Directors. The cooperative’s organisational structure ensures effective delegation and a clear division of responsibilities. This governance model reflects its commitment to shared ownership and mutual respect.

Beyond its core business, Contex is deeply involved in the community and education. It provides cooperative training, organises talks in schools and promotes cultural activities. Its participation in the “Las Flores Cooperative Movement” has been a source of inspiration for the local community. This Movement is a network of cooperatives (work, production, services, etc.) that emerged in the city of Las Flores, Buenos Aires. A notable initiative of this Movement is the school cooperative competition, launched during the International Year of Cooperatives in 2012, to educate students about cooperative principles. Although the pandemic briefly interrupted this programme, it has since resumed, benefiting hundreds of students annually.

When asked why they chose the cooperative model, Contex members speak passionately about its transformative potential. “At the age of 20, I joined Contex simply as another job opportunity. But thanks to cooperative training and access to information, I realised that we are more than just a safety net in difficult times: we are a movement for change. Through self-management, mutual aid and shared ownership, we have become masters of our own destiny.”

Contex is a prime example of how cooperatives can drive social and economic change. Its track record reminds us that, even in the face of adversity, collective action and shared goals can have a lasting impact. From empowering women and supporting local businesses to promoting sustainability and community involvement, Contex continues to demonstrate that cooperatives are not merely a response to crises, but a model for building a better future.

Contex is a member of FECOOTRA, the Argentine organisation affiliated with CICOPA.