Global co-operation

• Co-operatives provide jobs or work opportunities to 10% of the world’s employed population. 
• The three hundred top co-operatives or co-operative groups generate $2.1 trillion.
• Co-ops come in all sizes, and operate in all sectors - from tiny fairtrade producers, to FC Barcelona
• Co-operation is widespread across the globe, but it all began in the UK in 1844 with a group of artisans, the Rochdale Pioneers, who pooled together to improve their lot. You can watch a video about the Rochdale Pioneers and the co-operative movement here.
• Co-operatives bring people together in a democratic and equal way. Whether the members are the customers, employees, users or residents, co-operatives are democratically managed by the 'one member, one vote' rule, regardless of the amount of capital they put in
• Through self-help and empowerment, reinvesting in their communities and concern for the well-being of people and the world in which we live, co-ops nurture a long-term vision for sustainable economic growth, social development and environmental responsibility.

Find out more in our Co-op FAQs.

Other great sources for more information are our sister organisations:

The International Co-operative Alliance, which represents and serves co-operatives around the world www.ica.co-op.
Co-operatives UK is the umbrella body for all co-ops in the UK https://www.uk.coop/