Retailer agrees merger to create UK’s largest independent cooperative society
LONDON, December 6, 2025 — A LICHFIELD retailer has agreed a merger which will see the creation of the largest independent co-operative society in the UK.
Members of Central Co-op and the Midcounties Co-operative have voted to endorse the proposals.
The new society will have one million members and 13,000 members of staff across the country.
Debbie Robinson, Central Co-op CEO, said: “Creating a new society brings together the scale, reach and commercial opportunity to shape the future of co-operation in the UK.
“This isn’t simply about combining two organisations, it’s about building something new, something distinctly ours.
“Together, we can drive better value for members, create career opportunities for colleagues and strengthen the communities we serve.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine what a modern co-operative can achieve.”
The move follows the transfer of Chelmsford Star into Central Co-op earlier this year.
Phil Ponsonby, Midcounties Co-operative CEO, said: “The combined strengths of our new Society will allow us to navigate through challenging economic headwinds and invest for the future from a position of strength.
“As co-operators we know we can achieve more together, and we look forward to working with our members, colleagues and partners to create a new society that builds on our shared heritage and delivers real change.”
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