A legacy of cooperativism

“Since 1968, at Abacus we have been working for education and culture as engines of change and social transformation. And we do it from a cooperative perspective in a corporation that is owned by the people.”

Founded in response to the educational and cultural constraints of Francoist Spain, Abacus emerged as a groundbreaking cooperative dedicated to providing affordable and high-quality resources for school and students. The organisation has continued to evolve, embracing digital transformation while remaining committed to linguistic diversity, democratic plurality, and positive social impact.

Building a network of knowledge and creativity

Abacus is more than just a cooperative; it is a thriving ecosystem of educational and cultural initiatives. It operates 48 stores, serves over a million consumer members, and engages with diverse stakeholders, including schools, families, cultural institutions, and professionals. Abacus Original is at the heart of this network, anchoring various projects such as Abacus Education, which focuses on innovative educational solutions, and Abacus Media, which supports local journalism. Through Abacus Idea, the cooperative also invests in audiovisual content to promote cultural diversity, while Abacus Future drives forward an inclusive and socially responsible publishing model.

A response to systemic challenges

In an era of market concentration and digital monopolies, linguistic diversity and independent cultural production face increasing threats. Abacus recognises these challenges and actively works to counteract them by maintaining a decentralised, cooperative model that prioritises plurality, accessibility, and the public good over profit maximisation.

A strategy rooted in impact

The cooperative model of Abacus ensures that economic success translates into social benefits. It reinvests its profits into expanding access to education and culture, sustaining its cooperative framework, and strengthening community participation. By fostering transparency, participation, and equity, Abacus creates a model where economic growth serves a broader social purpose. The organisation also emphasises the importance of sustainability and conscious consumption, offering ethically produced goods and services that minimise environmental impact while maximising social value.

Transforming society through education and culture

The impact of Abacus is evident in its long-standing presence and continuous adaptation to new challenges. It has empowered generations of students, educators, and cultural professionals by providing essential resources that align with cooperative values. Through its extensive retail network and digital initiatives, it ensures that high-quality content and products reach a wide audience, contributing to a more informed and engaged society.

Lessons from a pioneering cooperative

The journey of Abacus highlights the power of cooperative enterprise in addressing societal challenges. A key lesson from its experience is the importance of adaptability. Balancing traditional values with innovation has allowed it to thrive despite shifts in market dynamics. Additionally, Abacus demonstrates that economic viability and social impact are not mutually exclusive; rather, they can reinforce one another when driven by a strong cooperative ethos.

Shaping the future of cultural and educational access

As Abacus moves forward, it remains dedicated to expanding its digital footprint while maintaining its cooperative essence. With a clear focus on participatory governance, conscious consumption, and the democratisation of knowledge, Abacus continues to lead by example, proving that cooperatives can be key players in fostering a more equitable and culturally vibrant society.