What is the difference between a cooperative and a union?

A cooperative is an organization owned and operated by its members for their mutual benefit, often focusing on shared economic goals and services, such as purchasing or marketing. In contrast, a union is an association of workers formed to advocate for their rights and interests, primarily concerning wages, working conditions, and benefits. While cooperatives emphasize collaboration among members for economic advantages, unions focus on collective bargaining and representation in labor relations. Both aim to empower their members, but they operate in different contexts and serve distinct purposes.