Co-operatives
The common definition of a co-operative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise.
What makes a co-operative different?
- co-operatives are locally owned, creating and retaining profits and jobs within their communities
- co-operatives are democratically controlled, putting into practice the principles of social justice and equal opportunity
- co-operatives operate in the competitive market, and combine commercial and social objectives
- co-operatives are not controlled by remote shareholders seeking short-term gain.