What is a University Co-op ?

A co-operative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise.　(the ICA Statement on the Co-operative Identity)

There are various types of co-operative. Consumer co-operatives, agricultural co-operatives, fisheries co-operatives, forestry co-operatives, worker co-operatives, insurance co-operatives and banking co-operatives are some typical co-operatives in Japan.

Business and activities of consumer co-operatives are Retail, Insurance, Health, Welfare and Housing. A consumer co-operative can be established as a regional co-operative or a residential/occupational co-operative.

A University Co-operative is a consumer co-operative. Members are the constituents of a university/college, namely student, faculty and staff. University Co-operatives support study, research, and campus life of both students and the faculty, contributing to the creation of attractive universities and the achievement of their missions.