The power of Cooperation - Cooperatives Europe - Key statistics

The report titled "The Power of Cooperation - Cooperatives Europe - Key Statistics" was published by Cooperatives Europe, an organization that represents cooperative enterprises across Europe. The report aims to present key statistics about the cooperative movement in Europe, highlighting its significance in the economy. It is authored by Dirk J. Lehnhoff, President of Cooperatives Europe, and Klaus Niederländer, Director of Cooperatives Europe. Their message emphasizes the importance of cooperation among members and the collective learning experience this report aims to foster.

The report highlights that there are approximately 176,461 cooperative enterprises across Europe, with a staggering annual turnover of €1,004.83 billion. Cooperatives employ around 4.7 million people, showcasing their vital role in job creation and economic sustainability. More than 141 million individuals are members of cooperatives, indicating that over 17% of the European population participates in this model. Since 2009, the number of cooperative enterprises has increased by 12%, and the membership has grown by 14%.

Within the European Union, there are about 131,090 cooperative enterprises generating an annual turnover of €992.66 billion. One in five people in the EU is a member of a cooperative. The report reveals that countries like Italy, Turkey, France, and Spain have the highest number of cooperatives, indicating a strong cooperative presence in Southern and Central Europe.

The report sheds light on the cooperative model's potential for sustainable housing. The housing sector is one of the prominent cooperative sectors, with over 37,570 cooperative enterprises. This signifies a commitment to providing affordable and sustainable housing solutions to communities. The cooperative model promotes collective ownership and management, allowing members to have a direct say in decisions affecting their living conditions.

In terms of employment, France, Italy, and Germany lead with the highest number of cooperative employees. For example, France has approximately 1.2 million employees working within cooperatives. The member density varies across Europe, with the Netherlands having every individual as a member of at least one cooperative. Finland has about 85% of its population as cooperative members, showcasing the model's widespread acceptance.

Agriculture is the largest sector by annual turnover, contributing more than €347 billion, followed by retail and consumer sectors. The cooperative model's economic impact is evident in its ability to create jobs, promote sustainable practices, and offer services that meet community needs. The report emphasizes how cooperatives can be instrumental in addressing challenges like climate change and social inequality through their sustainable practices and community-oriented approach.

Overall, "The Power of Cooperation" report serves as a crucial resource for understanding the cooperative landscape in Europe. It provides valuable insights into the economic contributions of cooperatives, their role in sustainable housing, and their potential to foster community well-being. The collective nature of cooperatives aligns with the growing demand for sustainable development and social responsibility in today’s economy.