The four co-operative models which CDS can advise on:
A consortium co-operative is run on a shared and equal basis by, and for the benefit of, its members. Members may be businesses, partnerships or individuals. The co-operative may be for buying, selling, marketing, sharing facilities or joint bidding for contracts.
An employee owned business is one in which the employees hold the majority of the shares either directly or through an employee benefit trust. Employee buy-outs are customised to the needs of the vendor and the employees.
Community co-operatives provide for shared ownership and control of services or assets, such as shops or utilities. This can be vital in areas where external investment is not readily available.
Mutuals are businesses that are owned and controlled by their members, who may be employees, users or other stakeholders. The opportunity to boost productivity, together with the pressures on government budgets, is fuelling interest in mutualisation.