Some Statistics
Research carried out in 2006 by Heriot Watt University reveals the full scale and value of the co-operative and mutual sector in Scotland. Mutual companies are included as they are owned by their policyholders/members. The results prove the success of the co-operative approach across all sectors.
- 427 co-ops and 12 mutual companies are active.
- One in five adults is a member of a co-operative, one in four of a mutual.
- £4 billion (approximately 4.25% of Scottish GDP) is the estimated combined turnover of all co-operatives and mutuals.
- 22,000 people are employed by co-ops and mutuals.
- 20 large housing co-ops have a combined turnover of £19 million p.a.
- 16 retail co-ops employ around 12,500 employees and turnover £1.1 billion.
- 10 employee-owned businesses and 34 worker co-ops, some operating since the 1970s.
- 26 fishing co-ops.
- 80 agricultural co-ops have a £1 billion turnover.
- Credit unions have 206,000 members and a £130m turnover.
- 12 mutuals have around 1m policyholders and assets of £19.6 billion.
- 31 football Supporters' Trusts have 30,000 member fans.