Revved and Registered | OEC News

OEC’s second annual Drive-Thru Annual Meeting has proven again to be a resounding success, with thousands of members embracing the efficient, car-side format at the University of Oklahoma’s Lloyd Noble Center parking lot. Inspired by a historic turnout in 2023 and backed by solid member support, OEC’s 2024 event saw even higher attendance and enthusiasm for this innovative approach.

Drive-Thru Meeting Returns with Record Turnout

This year, the Drive-Thru Meeting brought together 3,731 members and their guests, surpassing last year’s record attendance by more than 350 participants. Members arrived throughout the day to receive a $30 bill credit—a gesture reinforcing OEC’s commitment to member appreciation.

“The response from our members has been incredible,” said Brianna Wall, OEC’s manager of marketing and member relations. “We’re thrilled that our members have embraced this format, and our survey results show that this format is not only preferred by a majority but is something our members truly value.”

The drive-thru setup allowed for speed and convenience and is overwhelmingly preferred by attendees. A majority of surveyed attendees said they would stick with the Drive-Thru format rather than return to the traditional setup inside the Lloyd Noble Center. One survey respondent noted, “I love being able to drive through. I do craft shows and was setting up that afternoon, so I just did the drive-thru on the way!”

According to survey feedback, 86% of attendees were “very satisfied” with their Drive-Thru Meeting experience. The convenience was reflected in swift registration times, with 80% of members reporting waiting less than five minutes to register.

Members Take an Active Role in Voting

OEC members at the Drive-Thru voted on significant cooperative business, including a proposed revision to the bylaws, minutes from the 2023 meeting and the 2023 financial statements.

“Our members’ input is critical to our work, and seeing so many people participate in their cooperative is truly rewarding,” Wall said.

When members pulled into the parking lot, OEC’s staff provided warm greetings and seamless registration.

“It was a breeze going through the drive-thru line,” said one survey respondent. “Thank you for making it so easy!”

Survey Results Show Strong Support for Drive-Thru Format

Reflecting on the success of the 2024 Drive-Thru Annual Meeting, Wall reiterated OEC’s commitment to listening to its members and delivering an experience that resonates with their needs.

“We received so much positive feedback about this year’s event, and it’s heartwarming to see our members genuinely enjoying the experience,” Wall said. “Our team is made up of locals who care deeply about the community— they’re your neighbors, your friends, your family. They approach each member interaction with that in mind, and I think that shines through on days like this.”

Looking Ahead to Future Meetings

OEC’s decision to continue the drive-thru format speaks to its members’ evolving preferences and the cooperative’s adaptability. One member said, “This was my first experience with the Drive-Thru Annual Meeting, and it went great. I appreciate all the hard work that made it a streamlined experience.”

Thank you to every member who drove through, cast a vote and shared feedback that will help us make next year’s event even better. Your support and enthusiasm have made the Drive-Thru Annual Meeting a great success, and we couldn’t have done it without our dedicated employees, who made the day run smoothly. We’re proud to serve such an engaged community, and we’ll see you next year!