Merger: Co-operative Group / Southern Co-operative

Merger SLC Decision: Co-operative Group/Southern Co-operative

The CMA has decided, on the information currently available to it, that it is or may be the case that the above merger has resulted or may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition within a market or markets in the United Kingdom.

The CMA is therefore considering whether to accept an undertaking under section 73 of the Enterprise Act 2002 (the Act) in lieu of a reference. Pursuant to section 73A(1) of the Act, the Parties have until 22 September 2026 to offer an undertaking to the CMA that might be accepted by the CMA under section 73(2) of the Act. If no such undertaking is offered, then the CMA will refer this merger pursuant to sections 22(1) and 34ZA(2) of the Act.

The text of this decision will be placed on the dedicated case page as soon as is reasonably practicable.

In the event of media enquiries please email [email protected].