Impact Report 2026

2025 marked another pivotal year for Plunkett UK and the communities we support. Set against ongoing economic pressure, rising costs, and strain on local services, the community business sector has responded with growth and determination. Plunkett has played a pivotal role in inspiring and guiding communities – supporting both the creation of new enterprises and the strengthening of those already in operation.

Community Ownership: A Better Form of Business 2025

The number of rural community business has grown by 59% in the last decade, defying trends of economic decline, but confidence in the sector is the lowest we’ve experienced – and we are urging politicians and policymakers to more effectively recognise and support our proven model.

This is the headline message from Plunkett UK’s flagship research report for 2025, Community Ownership: A Better Form of Business.

The Future of Rural Retail 2025

Rural community shops play a critical role in safeguarding equitable access to essential retail and having broader societal impact – but more than ever, they must adapt to survive. This is the central message in the Future of Rural Retail Report, produced in partnership with a taskforce comprising 19 experts who represent supermarkets, wholesalers, local food suppliers and services. Among the group are retail consultant and broadcaster, Mary Portas, and the Earl of Devon, Charles Courtenay.

The report outlines challenges rural shops face in terms of accessing products and rising costs, and the need for them to focus on range, proposition, services and impact. It suggests key considerations for shops related to community consultation, finance and capacity, and provides practical solutions.

Impact Report 2025

As the only organisation dedicated to supporting rural community-owned businesses across the UK, Plunkett’s Impact Report 2025 showcases the widespread, life-changing impact that Plunkett makes to the sector, and how we influence community businesses to have local impact through five measurable themes. Plunkett has supported 828 community businesses to open and, with almost another 800 in our pipeline, and 30 opening each year, our movement continues to grow.