After what has been described as the ‘worst year in its history’ The Co-operative Group has today launched its latest Sustainability Report

The Report reflects the transition the Group has been going through, as it moves forward from the events of 2013 with a clear focus on a new Purpose and Strategy.

“There has been a lot of pain and bewilderment around The Co-operative, but the heart and soul of The Co-operative Group is alive and well... here in these pages, and in the promise for 2014 and beyond.” Jonathon Porritt, Report Commentator

Against such a challenging backdrop the Group has remained committed to reporting on its sustainability performance in an open and honest manner and to ensure its reporting is independently assured.

What’s more, as per Jonathon Porritt’s observation, it has managed to deliver a commendable performance, including:

  • £15.7m invested in UK communities
  • 1.5m young people benefited through its Inspiring Young People programme
  • Sales of Fairtrade products increased to £140m benefiting 225,000 people
  • 45% reduction in direct GHG emissions since 2006
  • 72% of waste reused/recycled, and on track to achieve zero waste to landfill

The Report is GRI-checked to application level A+ (G3.1) and is independently assured using AA1000AS by DNV GL.

With revenue of some £10.5bn and a range of businesses including food retail, funeralcare and insurance, The Co-operative is the UK’s largest mutual. Although The Co-operative Bank separated from the Group at the end of 2013, an overview of the Bank’s sustainability performance is provided online.

Read the Report: www.co-operative.coop/our-ethics/sustainability-report

Contact: sustainability.report@co-operative.coop

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