Co-operatives UK celebrates being awarded the Fair Tax Mark

Co-operatives UK has been awarded the prestigious Fair Tax Mark accreditation, recognising the trade body's commitment to paying the right amount of tax, at the right time, and in the right place. 

Ruth Buchanan, Head of Finance at Co-operatives UK, said: "This certification reflects our dedication to transparency, fairness, and the ethical business principles that are at the heart of the Co-operative Movement. Achieving Fair Tax Mark accreditation underscores our belief that businesses have a fundamental responsibility to contribute fairly to the communities and economies in which they operate."

The Fair Tax Mark is the gold standard for responsible tax conduct, awarded to businesses that meet stringent criteria for tax reporting and payment. The co-operative movement has long been a trailblazer in ethical business practices with co-operatives and mutuals, including Midcounties Co-operative and Unity Trust Bank, pioneering the Fair Tax Mark. 

Big member-owned retail co-operatives, including East of England Co-op, Scotmid Co-operative, Southern Co-op, Radstock Co-operative Society and The Co-op all demonstrate how important they think it is to pay the right amount of tax at the right time through Fair Tax Mark accreditation. Major worker-owned co-ops including Suma Wholefoods and Unicorn Grocery do the same. Further examples include Co-operatives UK members Westmill Solar Co-operative and VME Coop.

Ocean Lam, Accreditation Officer for Fair Tax Foundation, said: “We are delighted to award Co-operatives UK with the Fair Tax Mark for another year. Co-operatives have been first movers on so many ethical accreditation schemes over recent years, be that Fairtrade, socially responsible investment or fair tax. It’s fantastic that Co-operatives UK continues to fly the flag for fair tax.

“This year they have gone even further by providing additional trading and voting rights information, as well as a highly responsible public Taxation Policy, committing them to act within both the letter and spirit of the law, and shunning artificial tax avoidance."

Find out about Fair Tax Mark accreditation.