Suma is a wholefood collective founded in 1977 by a liberally-minded group of people who believed there was a better way, and actively set out to create it. Today it is stronger than ever. They deliver over 7000 vegetarian, natural, responsibly sourced products to businesses and communities across the UK and internationally. I made a visit to Suma in October 2019.
How it shows
Just doing it; They have 200 owner/workers and another 100 employees. They have a total equal pay philosophy (at the time I visited that meant £15.60 per hour). As they say - they are one of the largest co-operatives of their kind in Europe, working together to improve our society and support their suppliers and customers. Doing a little bit of good, and hoping for a little bit of change.
Characteristics
Good Process; Alongside the equal pay is a multi-skilling practice. After meeting operation targets they distribute profits 50% to reserves and 50% to workforce.
Open Policy Making; Policies are developed collaboratively which can be time consuming but once a decision is made consensus ensures there are fewer implementation problems. The governance structure based on a board with 3 leadership zones (Logistics, Services and Commerce).