Cooperatives NorthWest

Local Economic Partnerships are strengthened by involving co-operative businesses. Co-operatives are democratic businesses operating in almost every sector of the economy. Co-operative businesses help economies to be stronger, more diverse and robust.

During the current economic downturn, the co-operative sector has seen substantial and consistent growth. There are 5,000 co-operative businesses in the UK providing direct employment to 205,000 people. Combined turnover last year was £33.5 billion, up from £28.9 billion in 2008 – the North West region contributing £2.2 billion to the 2009 total. Source: 2010 Co-operative Review, published by Co-operatives UK.

The coalition government sees co-operative businesses as a key partner in economic recovery and growth stating in its agreement: “We will support the creation and expansion of mutuals, co-operatives, charities and social enterprises.” It follows that any Local Economic Partnership with representation from the co-operative sector will make a stronger case for support from government.

Co-operatives North West understands that Local Economic Partnerships in Lancashire do not yet have representation from the co-operative business sector. This is an issue we would like to help rectify. Please find a link to key case studies of co-operatives trading in Lancashire, and a comprehensive list of co-operative businesses. www.cooperatives-nw.coop/documents/co-operative-businesses-lancashire

Please pass this news onto your contacts with chambers of commerce, local councillors, your MP, and senior managers within local authorities. Please do not hesitate to make contact with Co-operatives North West to explore these issues further.

Ann Marie Wrigley, Chair, Co-operatives North West Limited and Director, New Era Enterprises (E. Lancs.) Ltd