2017 Co-op Way Report
Stronger Co-op, Stronger Communities
The Co-op is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives, with over 4.6 million members. Its purpose is ‘Championing a better way of doing business for you and your communities’.
Today the Co-op announces the launch of its 12th annual sustainability report.
The 2017 Report details how the Co-op’s approach to sustainability is supported by its campaigning agenda, and how its activities link to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For the first time the Co-op reports on the social impact generated in communities through a series of independently authored case studies that will help shape its thinking in this evolving area.
Other 2017 highlights include:
- £29.7m invested in communities
- 54% reduction in direct greenhouse gas emissions since 2006 - hitting reduction target three years early
- Recognised as the number 1 UK campaigning business - campaigning against modern slavery and tackling loneliness
- 71% of product packaging (by product line) is easy to recycle - aiming for 80% by 2020
- First UK retailer to sell and use only Fairtrade cocoa in own-brand products
- Only major retailer to offer 100% British fresh meat
- Held the Fair Tax mark since 2015
Looking ahead, the report sets out targets and identifies emerging themes for the coming years. These will support the Co-op’s ambition to build a ‘Stronger Co-op and Stronger Communities’, and include: making progress to better understand the social value the business generates, further aligning material activities to the SDGs, and promoting more grass roots co-operation to campaign for change.
The Report is independently assured by DNV GL.
Read the Report: coop.co.uk/sustainabilityreport
Media Contact:
Chris Sonne
Press and Media Manager
Mobile: 07770 544 721
