In this session we will explore how collaborative business models can help businesses grow sustainably.

Jim Booth, Co-op Development Director at The Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society (SAOS) will share insights into how co-operatives operate, why they succeed, and how their values of shared ownership and democratic decision-making can be applied across sectors. We’ll also discuss practical ways other businesses can adopt collaborative approaches to foster innovation, resilience, and community impact.

Whether you’re an SME looking to scale or a business leader interested in new growth strategies, this session will offer inspiration and actionable ideas to help your business, and your community, flourish.

What You’ll Learn:

• Key principles of co-operative business models
• Benefits of shared ownership and democratic governance
• How co-ops contribute to resilient, community-focused economies
• Practical ways to integrate collaborative approaches into your business
• Strategies to drive innovation and long-term sustainability

Agenda:

12:00 Registration and Networking Lunch
12:30 Presentation from SAOS and Q&A
13:30 Group Discussion
14:00 Close

“Too many businesses hold themselves back by trying to do everything alone. The smart approach is to collaborate—sharing resources, strengths, and expertise to achieve far more together.” – Jim Booth

Jim Booth has life-time experience supporting agricultural and rural businesses to grow and develop. He is an expert in co-op development and supply chain collaboration. He specialises in business development, strategic planning, change management, effective people management, and governance. A qualified trainer, he holds a degree in Agriculture, an MSc in Supply Chain Management, and an MBA.