Community Shops: A growing sector in the UK and Ireland James Alcock 10 th October 2013
Introduction: Introduction to the Plunkett Foundation Definition of a Community Shop Flavour of the UK and Ireland Community Shop Sector The Benefits of Community Shops Inspiring other Models of community ownership Reflections
The Plunkett Foundation Established in 1919 in Ireland Apply co-operative solutions to rural problems From Agricultural Economies to Service Economies From Shops to Launderettes!
Help available 22 members of staff Network of over 50 advisers Network of mentors Community development Legal structures Business planning Raising finance On-going development Online tools and resources Strategic relationships Post Office Cabinet Office Number 10 Membership
What is a Community Shop? Businesses which trade primarily for community benefit They are democratically owned by members of their community. All members have equal say in how the business is run, regardless of level of their investment. The interests of the business are linked into community control
The Rise of Community Shops:
315 shops currently trading Receive new shop enquiries per month Actively working with 110 potential shops in the pipeline Anticipate 25 news shops to open this year Sustainable form of business a 96% survival rate for shops
People 170 members – democratic control 7 management committee members – protecting the values 4 members of Staff – giving a sense of stability 31 Volunteers – adding to the vibrancy 945 Staff 7,796 Volunteers 51,510 Members 1.47 million volunteer hours £9.1 million saved in wages
Services: Typical Services: 100% ‘everyday’ 47% offer cafes 57% host Post Offices 95% sell local food Meeting Space
Finances: Turnover ranges from £4,000- £1,000,000 Average Turnover £161,000 Total UK Turnover - £49million Distribution of Profit: 19% community projects Like for Like Sales: Community shops +2.9% Sainsbury +1.8% Tesco -0.3%
The Benefits? 1. Safeguarding essential services 2. Creation of a community hub 3. Contribution to local economy 4. Creation of jobs 5. Volunteer and training opportunities
Inspiring other Sectors
Growing sector with impressive success rate Limited examples known in NI and ROI Legislation and support available in NI What are the barriers in NI? Reflections