Co-op store staff

Our Research: Evidence for a Fairer Future

Using evidence to drive action on social mobility

At Co op, research plays a vital role in how we understand inequality, shape our commitments and influence change beyond our business. We partner with leading think tanks and charities to build a strong evidence base on social mobility and socioeconomic inequality—and to turn insight into action.

To date, our research on social mobility has focused on three interconnected areas to build a strong and credible evidence base for action:

  1. We initially prioritised internal colleague insight, listening directly to colleagues from lower socioeconomic backgrounds to understand their experiences of financial security, job stability, progression, inclusion and belonging at Co op.
  2. We then examined the economic impact of social mobility, using research to show how employer action can unlock talent, improve productivity and support economic growth.
  3. Most recently, we have explored the link between social mobility and wellbeing, with research that reveals a ‘happiness gap’ between people born into different socioeconomic backgrounds.

Together, these strands ensure our approach is grounded in lived experience, backed by economic evidence and focused on creating positive change for society as a whole.

Social Mobility, Inclusion and Belonging at Co op

Co op commissioned independent research with the charity Making The Leap to understand how colleagues from lower socioeconomic backgrounds experience work at Co op. Based on in depth interviews and focus groups across the business, the research found that while many colleagues have experienced greater security, inclusion and progression, others still face barriers linked to financial insecurity, unpredictable hours and unclear career pathways.

The findings show that social mobility is not experienced equally and highlight the importance of fair pay, job stability, transparent progression and a strong sense of belonging. The research now informs Co op’s social mobility strategy and commitments, helping to improve opportunities for colleagues and working conditions across the business.

Download the executive summary here

Download the full report here and infographic here

The Opportunity Effect

In partnership with the think tank Demos, Co op commissioned The Opportunity Effect, a major piece of research exploring the role employers can play in improving social mobility—and the benefits of acting at scale.

The research found that if more employers took meaningful action to improve access, progression and pay for people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, the UK economy could see a £19 billion boost. It reframes social mobility as not only an issue of fairness, but a powerful driver of productivity, innovation and long term economic growth.

Download the report here

The Good Life

Discussions about social mobility have traditionally focused on fairness and economic growth. Our latest research, The Good Life, broadens this perspective by exploring how social mobility influences individual wellbeing and happiness. Conducted by the Sutton Trust, the UK’s leading social mobility charity, the research highlights how access to opportunity affects not just economic outcomes, but quality of life.

The findings reinforce the importance of action by government and business. Enabling people to fulfil their potential, regardless of background, brings benefits that extend beyond the individual. Greater wellbeing supports engagement in education and employment, helps people stay in work, and reduces pressure on public services such as the NHS and the benefits system.

At a time of increased debate around inclusion and equality, the research underlines why social mobility matters. For business and government alike, it is not only an economic priority, but an important contributor to a healthy, resilient society, grounded in access to education, training and employment for all.

Download the report here

Turning Insight into Impact

Research is not an end in itself. It plays a critical role in helping organisations understand inequality, evaluate what works, and shape practical responses.

We will continue to commission and support evidence that strengthens understanding of social mobility, informs responsible employer action, and supports collaboration between business, government and communities.

By acting on evidence over time and working in partnership with others, we aim to turn insight into meaningful, lasting change.