UK CMA Flags Competition Concerns Over Co-operative Group-Southern Co-op Merger

06:37 AM EDT, 09/15/2026 (MT Newswires) -- The UK Competition and Markets Authority found that the Co-operative Group's acquisition of Southern Co-operative could substantially reduce competition in UK markets. The regulator said Tuesday it is considering whether to accept undertakings from the companies to address its concerns, with proposals due by Sept. 22. If no acceptable remedies are offered, the CMA will refer the deal for a phase 2 investigation. The CMA launched the merger inquiry on July 30.