The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating the merger between Co-operative Group and Southern Co-operative, with updates on phase 1 decision and derogations published.
Why it matters. The outcome will affect the retail sector and consumer goods industry, impacting competition and pricing.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating the completed acquisition by Co-operative Group Limited of The Southern Co-operative Limited.
15 September 2026: The CMA has decided, on the evidence currently available to it, that it is or may be the case that this merger has resulted or may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition within a market or markets in the United Kingdom. This merger will be referred for an in-depth, phase 2 investigation unless the parties offer an acceptable undertaking to address these…
