Business models
Whilst there are central principles governing co-operatives and co-owned businesses, there are a number of different business models.
Employee co-operatives
Employee owned businesses are like conventional companies, but with much greater employee involvement. They are usually formed when retiring owners decide to sell the company to their staff.
Worker co-operatives are businesses that are owned and democratically controlled by their employees to sell their products and services. The main benefit to members is satisfying self-managed employment with a fair return for their work.
Business co-operatives
Purchasing, producing or marketing co-operatives allow individual businesses to procure, produce and sell more effectively, whilst still retaining their independence. Each member business has equal influence and control.
Community co-operatives
Consumer co-operatives are owned by their customers on a membership basis to provide the goods and services that they need. The member-customers finance the business by paying for these products and services.
Community co-operatives are owned, controlled and run for the benefit of those living in an area or having a common interest. These businesses allow groups of people to invest in new services and keep important assets in their communities.