The Preston Model and Community Wealth Building

"The importance of themes discussed in this volume goes far beyond Preston and even the North-West of England. The book makes a convincing case for the principles and ideas underlining the Preston Model to become a template for the regeneration of local economies across the country struggling with the consequences of funding cuts. With its emphasis on the role of co-operative values and principles as a means for sustainable socio-economic development and change this monograph offers an original and refreshing perspective on topics stalemated by outdated orthodoxies. This inspirational reading demonstrates that impactful changes are achievable even with a minimum of resources when the energy of the community is involved. The book is also ‘selling’ the Preston Model to the world, because it makes an endorsement to the ideas and shared history that belong to generations of thinkers, social dreamers and most brave social actors who happened to find a way to improve the life of communities and make places liveable and lovable."

- Olga Kuznetsova, Reader in Comparative Business Studies, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

"Solidarity economy in the making, the Preston model is a demonstration of a path to democratize and re-localize the economy. The book presents rich discussions about this evolving project, uncovering its complexity and ambition but also its diverse understandings and interpretations. As the Mondragon model it is looking to for inspiration, the Preston experiment continues to inspire communities wishing to take back control over their economy and the commons."

- Sonja Novkovic, Professor of Economics and Academic Director of the International Centre for Co-operative Management, Saint Mary’s University, Canada and Chair of the International Cooperative Alliance’s Research Committee