Welcome to our new Society

Why have the Societies decided to come together now? 

The retail and services environment has changed significantly in recent years. By bringing our strengths together now, we are creating a Society with the scale, resilience and efficiency needed to compete successfully long term, while staying true to co-operative values, Member ownership and local accountability. 

Why Central Coop and Midcounties? 

We are a natural fit: similar in size, values and culture, operating in neighbouring regions, with a strong history of working together. Previous transfers of travel and funeral businesses demonstrated trust, compatibility and a shared long-term ambition in practice. 

When does the new Society formally begin? 

The new Society takes effect from 26th January 2026. Integration will then take place over the next two to three years to ensure changes are delivered safely and responsibly. 

What this means for Members

Will Membership change? 

Existing Membership structures will remain in place during the initial integration. Over time, the Society plans to introduce a single Membership scheme, allowing Members to use one card across all services while preserving democratic governance. 

What happens to Dividend?

Sharing profits with Members remains central to the co-operative model. Dividend will continue to form part of the Membership offer, subject to financial performance and democratic approval. 

What if I’m a Member of more than one Society?

There is no immediate change. Existing schemes will continue alongside each other during integration. 

What happens to share accounts or fixed-term investments? 

Share capital transfers on a pound-for-pound basis. Members’ existing rights, including withdrawal options, remain unchanged. 

How have Members been kept informed? 

Members have been updated through emails, store communications, websites, apps and meetings. Colleagues have also been kept informed so they can answer questions locally and consistently. 

How can Members hold the new Society to account? 

Through elections, governance structures, Member engagement activity and our clear five-year plans with measurable targets. 

Leadership and governance

How were the new Executive and integration teams appointed?

Members elect the Board; the Board appoints the CEO; and the CEO appoints the Executive team. Appointments were made following a thorough assessment of skills and experience across both Societies. 

What is the role of the integration team?

The integration team is time-limited and focused solely on aligning systems, processes and ways of working. The permanent Executive team leads the Society’s long-term strategy and performance. 

Will Chelmsford Star be represented locally?

Yes. Former Chelmsford Star Directors will help shape local Membership and community activity through a new Essex cluster, and colleagues will have opportunities to progress into leadership roles over time. 

Community, responsibility and suppliers

What happens to community funds?

All existing community programmes will continue initially. Over time, the Society will review and strengthen how best to maximise local impact, with Member involvement. 

Will colleague volunteering continue? 

Yes. Supporting volunteering and responsible business remains a priority and will grow with the increased scale of the Society. 

What does this mean for suppliers?

Most food supply arrangements remain unchanged. The Society remains committed to supporting local suppliers while seeking efficiencies where appropriate. 

Finance, stores and operations

How can the Society be confident financially in a tough market? 

The business plan is deliberately prudent, based on sustainable growth and efficiency. Savings come from reduced duplication and better use of scale. 

Will stores be invested in or sold? 

Investment decisions will balance improving existing stores with new opportunities, always focused on long-term sustainability and community need. 

What will the new Society be called? 

From 26th January 2026, the legal name of the Society is Central England Co-operative Ltd, following the transfer of engagements. Both societies already operate successfully under the international ‘coop’ brand across their businesses, and this will continue. Work is underway on the future operating name and identity of the new Society.