ANGLIA Regional Co-op is to launch a buying service for retail co-operative societies in key non-food areas following the Co-op Group's decision to exit the department store sector.
Discussions on the issue have been underway between Anglia, which has extensive non-food interests, and the Group since last October when the decision was announced.
The Anglia buying team will take on responsibility in key product areas including furniture, floor coverings and house wares.
Buying responsibility for electrical products is currently under review within the Co-operative Group, which sells significant volumes through its 1700-strong food store network and through its joint e-commerce venture with United Co-operatives. A decision on this will be made shortly.
*Full report in the next Co-op News, published on March 21st
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