New research published by Co-operatives UK in September 2024 shows the continued contribution of the co-operative sector in Scotland.
The full report, titled Co-operative and Mutual Economy 2024, provides a combined, comprehensive dataset on the democratic economy across the UK and presents a compelling case for harnessing the full potential of co-operatives and mutuals.
Key Findings
- There are 7,370 co-ops across the UK with a turnover £42.7 billion
- Co-operatives across the UK have 15 million members
- There 595 co-ops in Scotland with an income of 1.9bn
- 8,382 people in Scotland work for a co-op
- More than three quarters of co-op start-ups (81.2%) are still flourishing after the difficult first five years compared with 39.6% of all new companies.
"The Co-operative and Mutual Economy Report is a substantial piece of research. It provides a clear picture of how significant these models are to our economy and the value to our communities of taking a different approach to business. We want to build on these impressive numbers in Scotland. The ambition and interest in co-ops that our advisors see on the ground is substantial and there is increased realisation that this model is a versatile and viable way of running a successful organisation."
Darah Zahran
Team leader, Co-operative Development Scotland
The full Co-operative and Mutual Economy report is available from Co-operatives UK. Click the link below to be redirected to their website. For further information about support for co-ops in Scotland, please contact the Co-operative Development Scotland team.