Commitment and Satisfaction in Producer Co-operatives: the Role of Work Values

Abstract

Although the arguments put forward in support of producer co-operatives span many levels—from the advantages for the national economy to the benefits for individuals—much of the promotion of co-operatives emphasizes the supposed advantages of cooperative working at the individual and organizational levels. It is argued that working in a co-operative can be more satisfying than working in a traditional business, and that the greater commitment sometimes found amongst the membership of cooperatives may enhance their performance relative to comparable traditional businesses.

The evidence from studies into attitudes in co-operatives indicates that the picture is less clear cut than this; some people appear to find the experience of co-operative working a satisfying one, some perceive it to be virtually indistinguishable from working in a traditional business, others become cynical and disillusioned. This paper examines responses to co-operative working in terms of the commitment and satisfaction among the members of a large well established co-operative. The role of different work values in determining commitment and satisfaction is explored, and the implications of the findings for the promotion of co-operatives discussed.