Invest in Your community – Join Our Share Offer
Invest in Your Community: Join the Our Shop Share Offer!
Houghton & Wyton Community Shop Ltd (H&WCS Ltd) trading as Our Shop, is excited to present an ongoing Share Offer, inviting both new and existing members to invest in our community-owned business.
What Is Houghton & Wyton Community Shop?
Established in April 2017 when Our Shop was acquired for the community from the previous owners, H&WCS Ltd is not just a local shop but a community asset that serves residents and visitors alike. As a Community Benefit Society registered under Cooperative and Community Benefit Societies Act, our mission is to benefit the community while maintaining a sustainable business model. Since inception, we have seen remarkable success, including a 70% increase in shop turnover and investment exceeding £100,000 to improve our premises.
Why Invest?
Investing in H&WCS Ltd means contributing to something much larger than yourself. Your investment will:
- Strengthen Our Community: Help maintain and develop our shop as a vital resource for residents, including supporting local clubs and addressing social isolation.
- Create Employment Opportunities: Contribute to job creation and provide volunteer opportunities for residents.
- Sustainable Choices: Support local traders to reduce waste, lower ‘food miles,’ and encourage environmentally friendly initiatives.
Share Offer Details
- Minimum Investment: £100 for 10 shares (£10 each)
- Maximum Investment: £20,000 (2000 shares)
- Open to All: Anyone over the age of 16 can invest, with at least 51% of shares required to be held by residents.
Your shares are not merely an investment; they grant you voting rights in our community decisions.
Regardless of the number of shares, each member has one vote, ensuring a democratic approach to running Our Shop.
Financial Returns
While returns are modest, we aim to pay interest annually, depending on our financial situation and trading performance. Historically, H&WCS Ltd has issued interest payments to shareholders—2.75% in 2020 and 2% in subsequent years, with many opting to reinvest their returns back into the shop.
Be Part of the Future
This share offer is an opportunity to connect, belong, and contribute to the collective good of our community. We value every single member and believe that your input can guide our decision-making towards a sustainable and prosperous future.
To invest, complete the Share Purchase Application Form, available in Our Shop or click here. Payments can be made by cheque or BACS. Rest assured, your personal details will be held in strict confidence.
Join us today and invest in a thriving community. Together, we can ensure that Our Community Shop continues to flourish for generations to come!
For more information or any queries, contact us at members@hwcommunityshop.org or pop into Our Shop.
