Co-operative businesses form a key and successful part of the UK and global economy reaching far beyond the well-recognised High Street shops. Globally, more people work in co-operatives than work in multinationals. In the UK there are over 7,000 independent co-operatives employing over 233,000 people, 13 million members and an annual turnover of over £37 bn. The largest sectors by turnover include retail, agriculture, sports and recreation and housing.
If you are looking to start up your own business or advise those who do, have you considered the co-operative option? Co-operatives outperform other companies. The survival rate after 5 years is 72% compared with 43% for companies. Worker owned businesses have a turnover in of over £11 bn. When you add in the increased satisfaction, commitment, productivity and innovation this is a powerful if often overlooked option.
If you are a business owner looking to share the success with your employees, or looking to sell your business and secure your legacy, then letting the people who know your business best, the current people who work there, is a powerful and supported option.
No Community or Co-operatively owned pub has yet closed... interested why? Come along to understand the "co-operative advantage"
This event is aimed at those interested in setting up a new business or owners looking at selling up and want to think about their employees taking over. It will also be of use to business advisers and business support professionals.
Attendees will gain an understanding of the co-operative business model; why they are more resilient and how a values-based approach can provide a competitive edge.