The cooperative

The cooperative focuses on the idea of promotion and economic self-help. The cooperative is also suitable for entrepreneurial activity.

The cooperative is also supported by "internal" corporate values such as a clearly defined right of co-determination through the head voting principle and direct democracy.

At least seven people are required to form a cooperative, whereby the management must consist of at least three members.

No minimum capital is required to form a cooperative in Switzerland. This makes it much easier to form a cooperative, as the financial burden for the founding members is low.

The cooperative's capital is raised through the members' contributions, which are usually subscribed in the form of share certificates.

The amount of the contributions can be flexible and depends on the needs and objectives of the cooperative.

The purpose of a cooperative is to promote the economic interests of its members through joint business operations. This can take place in various areas, e.g. in trade, agriculture, housing construction or the service sector.

The exact purpose of the cooperative is defined in the articles of association and must serve the common good of the members. The cooperative is therefore a flexible form of organization that enables a wide range of economic activities.

At least seven natural or legal persons are required to found a cooperative in Switzerland.

These founding members adopt the articles of association of the cooperative and elect the Board of Directors, which is responsible for the management and administration of the cooperative. The Board of Directors usually consists of several members who cover different tasks and areas of responsibility.

The democratic structure of the cooperative ensures that all members are equally involved in the decision-making process.

Founding a cooperative offers many advantages. One of the biggest advantages is democratic co-determination, in which every member has a vote regardless of their capital investment. This promotes member identification and commitment. In addition, members are generally only liable with their contribution and not with their private assets, which reduces the financial risk.

Cooperatives also enjoy tax advantages and can be exempt from tax liability for charitable purposes.

In addition, cooperatives enable the pooling of resources and expertise, which strengthens competitiveness and innovative power.

One of the disadvantages of a cooperative is the higher administrative effort associated with its formation and management. The creation and adaptation of articles of association, the organization of general meetings and compliance with cooperative principles require time and commitment.

Another disadvantage can be the limited flexibility in decision-making, as all members have equal rights. This can lead to longer decision-making processes and potential for conflict.

Raising capital can also be more difficult, as cooperatives do not have the same opportunities to issue shares or units as other forms of company.

In summary, the formation of a cooperative in Switzerland offers an attractive and democratic way of pursuing common economic interests and making efficient use of the members' resources. However, the advantages of democratic co-determination and limited liability must be weighed against the administrative burden and possible difficulties in decision-making.