New research from Plunkett UK reveals rural, community-owned businesses are already delivering social, economic and environmental benefits that align directly with government ambitions – yet they remain under-recognised and under-supported.

Plunkett’s annual report, Community Ownership: A Better Form of Business, shows the sector has grown by 59 per cent over the past decade, defying the trend of economic decline in many rural areas.

However, the charity warns this success is being achieved in spite of, not because of, government support.

Plunkett’s research shows “the sector is now at crisis point with the worst confidence levels we have ever seen”. 32 per cent of community businesses are only just surviving and two per cent are at risk of closure.

Plunkett chief executive James Alcock said: “For too long governments have overlooked the vital role of rural community businesses in tackling isolation, maintaining local services and creating economic resilience.

“With almost 150,000 members investing £77 million of their own money, these businesses embody the inclusive growth that government wants to see.

“We urge ministers to recognise and back this proven model, and to work with Plunkett to ensure their initiatives are reaching rural areas, where there is a track record for long-term sustainability.”

Pictured: George in Bethersden, Kent, closed for two-and-a-half years after the pandemic but relaunched in May 2023 after villagers raised the £300,000 they needed to buy it.