Co-op merger may be coming too late

The Financial Times focuses on the year ahead for the Co-operative Group as it tries to climb back towards the prominence it enjoyed in the days when Tesco was just starting its ascent to the top. Within months the Co-op may announce a merger with United Co-operatives, its regional counterpart, after revealing talks in December. The FT writes that the Co-op has moved slowly to match the quality and prices of its rivals and has not been quick enough in advertising its ethical shopping credentials. The tie-up with United would, however, create a grocery retailer with 2,300 shops and more than £4bn in sales. References: Financial Times 06/01/07 page 16