About Us
Growing out of the work and commitment of a founding group of community co-operatives, the Network was established in 2004 with the aim of supporting and promoting sustainable community-owned shops.
We support communities wishing to set up and run a community owned shop and we help existing community retailers learn from each other and assist them in adding to their viability and effectiveness. We also promote and represent community retailing to build awareness and support for the sector.
We are a company limited by guarantee with one part-time member of staff and a board of voluntary directors elected by our membership. We work closely with The Co-operative Group, The Plunkett Foundation (which supports community shops in England and Wales) and Co-operative Development Scotland.
We currently receive funding from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and The Co-operative Group.
Community Retailing Network supports Local People Leading.
