Co-op launches £7.5m advice 'hub' for mutuals

THE Co-operative is investing £7.5 million in a network of consultants dedicated to the creation of mutually-owned organisations.

Launched in Glasgow today, the Co-operative Enterprise Hub will offer web-based and face-to-face advice to both new and existing co-operatives amid what its backers describe as a renaissance for the mutual model.

"We are seeing more and more people setting up, running and growing member-owned enterprises as consumers take ownership into their own hands and have a say in the running of businesses and services that meet the demands of local communities" said Co-operative chief executive Peter Marks.

"The co-operative business model is again seen as a modern, effective and relevant approach to business and has, without doubt, an exciting part to play in fostering future enterprise."

The service will be provided in Scotland by a network of specialists led by Co-operative Business Consultants.

Martin Meteyard, Edinburgh-based member of CBC, said the new hub would complement existing services provided by Scottish Enterprise subsidiary Co-operative Development Scotland and the Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society.