UK Regulator Launches Probe Into Co-operative Group-Southern Co-op Merger

08:01 AM EDT, 07/30/2026 (MT Newswires) -- The UK Competition and Markets Authority started its merger inquiry into Co-operative Group's pending acquisition of Southern Co-operative, according to a Thursday release. The British regulator is investigating whether the transaction will result in a relevant merger situation under the Enterprise Act 2002, and if it will raise competition concerns within the local goods or services sectors. The watchdog plans to issue its phase one decision by Sept. 28.