Policy Plan for Co-operative Growth
Resource
The Department for Business and Trade invited the mutual sector to prepare bold plans for growth. In response, we have worked with members, partners and experts across the UK to create a practical, evidence-based plan to unlock the full potential of co-operative enterprise.
Our Policy Plan for Co-operative Growth sets out how government and the sector can work together to double the number of co-operatives within a decade, achieve at least £20bn GVA by 2035, and ensure geographically and socially inclusive co-operative development. It identifies five areas where co-operatives can deliver the greatest economic and social impact - from the food system and public services to housing, community ownership and infrastructure.
The plan outlines how to strengthen three critical development pathways: high-potential start-up, scale-up and transitions and recommends cross-cutting policy action on access to finance, co-operative development support, tax and enabling legislation. It also makes a clear case for why co-operatives matter.
This growth plan represents the voice and ambition of our sector. We encourage policymakers, partners and co-operatives of all kinds to read it, share it and work with us to help bring about the next era of co-operative growth.
Law Commission: Shaping the future of co-operative law
