We are Scotland's experts on co-operative and collaborative strategies, structures, and management. We provide a comprehensive range of development and consultancy services, supported by The Scottish Government.
Email:
saos@saos.co.uk
Address:
Rural Centre
West Mains
Ingliston
EH28 8NZ
Telephone:
0131 472 4100
Fax:
0131 472 4101
Web Location:
SAOS website
The purpose of SAOS is to strengthen the profitability,
competitiveness and sustainability of Scotland's farming, food and
drink, and related rural industries and communities through the
development of co-operation and joint venture.
SAOS is a development organisation owned by its membership,
which comprises businesses constituted in accordance with
co-operative principles, or whose primary purpose is to benefit
their owners or communities through
their use of services or amenities, rather than as reward for
funds invested.
SAOS provides information, advice and specialist consultancy
services to farmers and food chain companies, and to rural
businesses and communities that decide to work co-operatively or in
joint venture to achieve their aims and objectives. SAOS also
provides consultancy services to, and in conjunction with, a range
of other businesses, industry organisations and Government agencies
in projects and initiatives where our interests are
complementary.
SAOS is committed to co-operation as a strategy to enhance
wealth, employment, sustainability and local empowerment, thereby
strengthening Scotland's rural economy and community. The
Principles of Co-operation established by the International
Co-operative Alliance underpin our action.
SAOS is a 'co-operator', recognising and valuing mutual benefits
and interdependencies in all our relationships.
SAOS pursues innovation as a source of advantage and motivation
for rural businesses and communities.
SAOS is an educator, committed to improving understanding and
extending knowledge of the contribution and potential of
co-operation, and is committed to assisting directors of co-ops to
develop their skills and effectiveness in discharging their
responsibilities.
SAOS values people and is an Investor in People to enable all
staff to attain their full potential and continuously improve their
contribution to our work.
SAOS Rules do not permit the distribution of profits. All our
resources are applied to delivering our purpose.