Co-operative Principles
All co-operatives are run according to seven key principles agreed by the International Co-operative Alliance. These principles are central to the management of any co-operative enterprise and will help ensure its success.
- Membership of the co-operative is voluntary and open.
- All control is democratic.
- Members can participate in a tangible economic way.
- The co-operative is autonomous and independent.
- It offers education, training and information.
- There is a spirit of co-operation between all involved.
- There is active and practical concern for the local and wider community.
Employee ownership culture
There are no designated principles for employee-owned businesses, although many of them share common interests and values, for example:
- Empowering employees to participate in decision-making and other ownership activities
- Encouraging employee share ownership
- Fostering an open and honest business culture
- Communicating the benefits of employee ownership to customers and suppliers
- Encouraging employees to look beyond their responsibilities at work to the wider community and environment.