Hyötyosuute

Hyötyosuute is a Finnish term that translates to "benefit share" or "utility share." It refers to a concept within cooperative and mutual organizations where members receive a portion of the organization's profits or surplus based on their level of participation or use of the organization's services. This is distinct from a traditional dividend paid to shareholders based on capital investment.

The core principle behind hyötyosuute is to distribute economic benefits back to the individuals who contribute to the success of the cooperative. For example, in a consumer cooperative, a member might receive a hyötyosuute based on the total amount they have spent at the cooperative's stores over a period. In a housing cooperative, it could be related to rent paid or other fees. In agricultural cooperatives, it might be tied to the volume of produce delivered by a farmer-member.

This model encourages active participation and loyalty among members, as their engagement directly translates into tangible economic returns. It reinforces the cooperative's democratic and member-focused ethos. The calculation and distribution of hyötyosuute are typically determined by the cooperative's bylaws and member agreements, ensuring transparency and fairness within the organization. It is a key mechanism for realizing the economic advantages of cooperative membership.