The Co-op Economy

To produce the report, we analyse data from thousands of co-ops using a range of sources. We use this report to raise awareness of co-operatives in the media.

Just as co-ops are about more than the bottom line, this report is about more than the numbers. Through case studies, identification of emerging trends and needs, we make the case for a more co-operative United Kingdom – a nation that’s more inclusive; promotes a fairer distribution of wealth; and offers solutions to some of the UK’s most pressing issues.

The Co-op Economy Survey 2021

We’re calling on co-ops throughout the UK to fill in our online survey to help us gather data for the report. And this year, we want to produce a more in-depth understanding of how the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the sector. Find out more about the survey here.

This will allow us to raise the profile of co-ops, share evidence of how they are vital to help 'build back better', as well as understand the challenges co-ops are facing so that we can lobby on behalf of the sector, develop support programmes and advice to address these needs.

The Co-op Economy Report 2020

Last year’s report revealed:

• 76% of co-op start-ups are still flourishing after the difficult first five years. Just 42% of new companies make it through to the end of year five.
• Annual turnover of the UK’s co-operative sector is up to £38.2 billion - an increase of £340m on the previous year.
• The UK’s 7,063 independent co-ops employ 241,714 people and have over 14 million members who own and have a say in how the nation's co-ops operate.

Find out more about last year's report here.