Journal of Co-operative Studies, 37(1), 5-21

Abstract

This paper explores current issues in the modernisation of British credit unions. It describes and analyses the challenges and dilemmas they face as they endeavour to increase their market share and to serve a diverse membership with attractive financial products and services. The paper makes the case for a radical financial and organisational restructuring of credit unions and argues that they are only going to grow as viable and relevant financial institutions in Britain, if they adopt robust market oriented and commercial principles. The paper analyses the implementation of these principles within a credit union strengthening project in the West Midlands.