welcome to saos
We are Scotland's experts on co-operative and collaborative strategies, structures and management. We provide a comprehensive range of development and consultancy services, supported by The Scottish Government.
Co-operation in Agriculture, Forestry and Aquaculture
Scotland is home to some of the most innovative and successful agricultural and rural co-ops in the UK. Common purpose and shared investment are delivering extra value to farmers and growers. Find out more about co-operation
Collaborative Supply Chains
Businesses in traditional supply chains compete with each other, foregoing the value available from greater efficiencies and faster market responsiveness. Businesses in collaborative chains align their commercial objectives and coordinate information flows and actions to capture more value for all. Find out more about collaborative supply chains
Local Foods
The market for local foods in Scotland is growing apace, delivering a range of social, economic, cultural, health and environmental gains. Growth would be impossible without co-operation and collaboration amongst producers and in supply chains, whether organising a farmers market, or supplying local schools. Find out more about local foods
Carbon Management
Rural Scotland has a vital contribution to make to alleviating the effects of climate change: opportunities for renewable energy and heat, biofuel, and carbon management are all best addressed through co-operation. Find out more about carbon management


