The Channel Islands Co-operative Society helps former employee to set up workers’ co-operative

Tuesday 10 November 2015

The Channel Islands Co-operative Society has helped a former staff member set up his own workers’ co-operative.

Shaun Crowther, a qualified bike mechanic with ten years of experience, opened The Jersey Bike Co-operative in St Peter last month.

Mr Crowther, who was employed at Total Sport until it closed in the summer, decided to put his experience to good use and set up a family focused bike shop as a workers’ co-operative, with the support of his former employer.  The bike shop, which is located in the Morton and Morton building in St Peter, also employs two additional staff members, who are effectively part owners of the business.

"I had already decided to set up my own bike shop when I started talking to The Channel Islands Co-operative Society about the benefits of structuring my business as a workers’ co-operative.  They, along with Co-operatives UK (a network of UK co-ops) and Jersey Business, have given me great advice and guidance.  Carl Winn, the Society’s Non-Food Operations Manager, has been a great sounding board, has helped me to arrange finance for my venture, given me important tips on how to manage a business and helped me to secure my premises," said Mr Crowther. 

A worker’s co-operative is a co-operative owned and self-managed by its workers. The workers all have a say in key decisions regarding how the business is operated and managed, with each team member having one voting share.  Dividends are also divided between the employees.

"Shaun presented his business plan to Colin Macleod, the Society’s chief executive, and myself and we both thought it was a great idea. We’re thrilled to have been able to help him set up his workers’ co-operative as it is a great business model to follow and one other new start-ups should be considering," said Mr Winn.

The store opened on Friday 30^th October. The store stocks a full range of Raleigh bikes and accessories as well as other highly regarded cycling brands. Islanders can also visit www.coopbikes.com for further information.

"I am delighted that my dream has become a reality, thanks to the help of the Society and many others. I wanted to provide Jersey with affordable bikes, clothing and accessories for all the family, from childrens’ first stabilisers, to electric bikes, through to top of the range racing thoroughbreds. We are also offering bike servicing plus a full range of cycling accessories," said Mr Crowther.