Reception and Perspectives of Experts and Cooperative Members on Austrian Cooperatives During the Corona Crisis: A Qualitative and Quantitative Survey

Abstract

This two-stage study examines the perception and perspectives of experts and cooperative members on Austrian cooperatives during the Corona crisis. For this purpose, a Delphi study among experts and an online survey among members of cooperatives were conducted. The findings show that the members and experts perceive cooperatives as well positioned to meet current and future challenges. The most significant potential is seen in the agricultural and energy sectors. However, the members urge that the values traditionally ascribed to cooperatives, such as participation, promotion of the members, and democracy, should be further implemented within their cooperative and better communicated to the public. If this happens, they see a legal form well suited to underpin its advantages, for example concerning the increasing importance of sustainability issues. Members are ambivalent about digitalization. They welcome integrating digital tools if they help improve the efficiency of cooperative’s administration and business operations. However, when it comes to digital decision-making processes or general meetings, members are reluctant because they fear that this reduces direct contact between members. For them, digital tools should primarily be used as a supplement.