IPSWICH & Norwich Society Chief Executive Richard Samson has congratulated the Co-op News on its coverage of Somerfield's controversial 'Co-op Flock Off' campaign first reported in our December 4th issue.
In this week's printed version of the News, we told how Somerfield has called off its 'war' against Co-op stores; apologised for any offence caused and dubbed the initiative an embarrassment which won't be repeated.
Mr Samson ? who was highly critical of Somerfield's attempts to `energise` its managers by offering bonuses to close a local Co-op ? said: `Full marks to the News for highlighting this appalling anti-Co-op campaign.`
`It's most unusual for a PLC chairman to make such a public climbdown. The entire episode serves as a timely reminder of the Co-op difference.
`Our ethical standards, as well as our in-store standards are clearly in a different league from Somerfield's and it's good for our customers to see such a major competitor in their true colours.`
And Meg Munn, Labour/Co-op MP for Sheffield Heeley, said she was pleased that Somerfield had seen sense and had apologised for their `serious lack of judgment.`
Added Ms Munn: `Somerfield's crude attempt to threaten the jobs of staff in local Co-op stores has rebounded and highlights their lack of strategic direction.`
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