Co-operative crowned Responsible Retailer for fourth year running

The Co-operative Group has been crowned Responsible Retailer of the Year at the prestigious Oracle Retail Week Awards 2011, which recognise the very best in UK retailing.

It is the fourth year running that the consumer-owned retailer has taken the fiercely contested title, but the judges said The Co-operative was a clear winner and still “streets ahead” in the responsible retailing stakes.

The Co-operative, which raised the bar further in February with the launch of its groundbreaking Ethical Operating Plan, beat Asda, B&Q, Marks and Spencer, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Tesco to take the coveted “green” award.

The depth of The Co-operative’s commitment to being a responsible business and the sheer scope of its initiatives, from inspiring young people to tackling global poverty, impressed the judges.

Peter Marks, Group Chief Executive, The Co-operative Group, said: "The Retail Week Awards recognise the very best in the highly competitive UK retailing industry, not just the grocery sector, so to win this particular accolade four years in succession is an incredible achievement.

“However, as the launch of The Co-operative Ethical Plan demonstrates, we are not resting on our laurels, and this award recognises the hard work and commitment of colleagues across the Group in delivering our Co-operative difference and campaigning for what we believe in, supported by our members and customers.”

In addition to the Responsible Retailer award, The Co-operative’s Fairtrade wine buyer, Maria Elener, picked up the Fairhills Ethical Person of the Year award at the annual Drinks Business Green Awards.

[ENDS]

Contact Information

Michelle Henderson

Public Relations Manager - Food

The Co-operative Group

Contact via E-mail