About Co-operative development scotland
Co-operative Development Scotland: Empowering Scottish Businesses through Employee Ownership and Collaborative Business Models
Co-operative Development Scotland (CDS) is a unique organization that offers expert advice and support to Scottish businesses looking to adopt employee ownership or collaborative business models. With a mission to promote sustainable economic growth, CDS has been instrumental in helping numerous companies across Scotland thrive by empowering their employees and fostering a culture of collaboration.
At its core, CDS believes that businesses can be more successful when they are owned and run by the people who work for them. By giving employees a stake in the company's success, businesses can create a sense of shared purpose and motivation that drives innovation, productivity, and profitability. Moreover, employee ownership can help ensure the long-term sustainability of companies by aligning the interests of owners with those of employees.
CDS offers a range of services designed to help businesses navigate the complex process of transitioning to employee ownership or collaborative business models. These services include feasibility studies, legal advice, financial modeling, governance training, marketing support, and networking opportunities. Whether you are considering an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), an Employee Buyout (EBO), or another form of collaborative business model such as co-operatives or partnerships - CDS has the expertise you need to make informed decisions.
One key advantage of working with CDS is their extensive network of partners across Scotland's business community. From lawyers and accountants to financial advisors and HR consultants - CDS can connect you with trusted professionals who understand your needs as an employee-owned or collaboratively-run business. This network also provides valuable opportunities for knowledge-sharing and peer-to-peer learning among like-minded organizations.
Another benefit offered by CDS is their commitment to ongoing support for businesses after they have made the transition to employee ownership or collaboration. This includes access to training programs on topics such as leadership development, team-building skills, conflict resolution strategies - all aimed at helping your team work together more effectively and achieve your business goals.
CDS has a proven track record of success in helping businesses across Scotland make the transition to employee ownership or collaborative business models. Some notable examples include:
- Aquascot, a seafood processing company based in the Highlands, which became 100% employee-owned in 2016 with support from CDS. Since then, Aquascot has seen increased productivity, profitability, and staff retention rates - all while maintaining its commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing.
- Galloway & MacLeod Ltd., a precision engineering firm based in Glasgow that became an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) in 2019 with help from CDS. The move to employee ownership has helped Galloway & MacLeod maintain its competitive edge by retaining key staff and fostering a culture of innovation.
- Woollard & Henry Ltd., an engineering company based in Aberdeen that became an Employee Buyout (EBO) with support from CDS. The EBO allowed Woollard & Henry's employees to take control of the company's future while preserving its legacy as a family-owned business.
In conclusion, Co-operative Development Scotland is an invaluable resource for Scottish businesses looking to adopt employee ownership or collaborative business models. With their expert advice, extensive network of partners, ongoing support programs - CDS can help you navigate the complex process of transitioning your business towards greater sustainability and success. Whether you are just starting out on this journey or looking for ways to enhance your existing model - CDS is here to help you thrive!