A people-powered global phenomenon

Co‑ops make sense, and they make our world a better place in which to live, work, and play.

Co‑ops are one of the fastest growing sectors of the global economy. They also fared better during the economic recession and credit crisis of 2008.

When people are successful financially, they have a higher standard of living. Co‑ops, rooted as they are in community values and guided by international co‑op principles, create wealth for people and communities, and they do so responsibly and by means of sustainable practices. Here's a look at how co‑ops are transforming our world.

Some interesting facts about co‑ops:

• There are nearly 1 billion co‑op members worldwide.
• Co‑operative enterprises provide over 100 million jobs.
• The world`s top 300 co‑ops have combined annual revenues of $1.1 trillion, equal to the world`s 10th largest national economy.
• In the U.S., over 900 rural co‑op utilities deliver electricity to more than 42 million people in 47 states.
• Wine-making co‑ops in France produce more than half of all French wine.
• In Kenya, co‑ops are responsible for 70% of coffee production.
• In Japan, the nation with the world`s highest average life expectancy, healthcare co‑ops, including 81 hospitals, 351 medical clinics, 55 dental clinics, 227 nursing stations, 375 home-care centres and 297 elder daycare services contribute to preventive care and community health.