CWS and CRS will form Europe's largest co-operative when their merger goes live this week. But CWS says there is still much to be done before the benefits will be seen. Chief executive Graham Melmouth said: "This is a seminal moment in the evolution of the co-operative movement ­ but there is much to be done, and done quickly, to deliver the benefits." Melmouth said four senior CRS staff had been appointed to build vital aspects of the integration of the businesses (see page 62). CRS representatives had the final vote on the merger last week, giving it an "overwhelming" agreement. The merged Co-op, to be branded under the CWS name, starts trading on April 2. {{NEWS }}

Topics