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Summary

The report builds on last year's publication, which was named runner-up at the CR Reporting Awards

Report Highlights

The Co-operative Group – one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives – has launched its 2009 Sustainability Report at www.co-operative.coop/sustainabilityreport

The online and printed Reports build on last year’s publication, which was named runner-up at the CR Reporting Awards. The online version includes two new sections: 'Water' and 'Inspiring young people', on which stakeholder feedback is invited.

Highlights include:

Fairtrade sales up 280% in three years. Last year, sales rose to £61 million.
Greenhouse gas emissions down 21% since 2006.
1 billion less carrier bags: reduced by more than half in three years.
Over £1bn bank finance declined that was in conflict with customer’s ethical concerns since 1992. At the same time lending has increased to £8bn.
Assertive campaigning activity continued: The Co-operative became the first UK business to mobilise consumers to demonstrate in an environmental march. And following the success of its Marine Reserves Now! Campaign, the Marine and Coastal Access Bill became law.
Accolades achieved include: top retailer/financial services business in the Sunday Times Best Green companies list, winner of the Financial Times Sustainable Bank of the Year award, and BITC ‘Platinum Plus’.

The Report is consistent with a Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G3 application level of A+ and has been independently assured by Two Tomorrows, using AA1000AS.

The Co-operative Group operates in the UK, in food retail, banking, insurance, pharmacy, funeral, travel and farming sectors. It employs 113,000 people, has over 5,000 retail outlets, and over 5 million members who can share in its profits and participate in its governance. Following a merger with Britannia and acquisition of Somerfield in 2009, the Report details the performance of the enlarged business.

For a printed copy of the Report, email: sustainability.report@co-operative.coop
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