what is a co-operative?

Co-operatives are a better way of doing business; better because they are owned and democratically controlled by their members. The members may be customers, employees, residents, businesses, people who are part of the local community or a combination of these, depending on the legal model chosen. Almost any kind of enterprise can run as a co-operative and it is the members who are the beneficiaries of the activities of the business.

 

The internationally agreed definition of a co-operative is:

Co-operatives are accountable businesses that spread the financial risks and the rewards fairly among their members. They also balance the need to make a profit with the necessity of strengthening communities and protecting the environment.  

Co-operatives are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity and solidarity. In the tradition of their founders, co-operative members believe in the ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others.

The principles, or guidelines by which co-operatives put their values into practice, are defined as:

It’s good to know the co-operative model has proved to be one of the most enduring and successful ways of running a business for the last 150 years. Co-operatives can deliver products and services in a way that’s more responsible, accountable and sustainable so why not apply online for our free Advice and Training programme.

You might also be interested in reading 'After the Crash', a report written by Andrew Bibby, commissioned by The Co-operative Group which highlights some successful co-operative solutions.

 Download 'After the Crash' [PDF, 2.37MB]