Somerfield suppliers are concerned they could lose business if the 900-store supermarket chain is sold.

The Co-operative Group revealed last week it was in "serious discussions" to buy Somerfield and hoped to secure a deal by the summer.

However, suppliers who contacted The Grocer said this would leave them in limbo as they prepared to discuss new contracts with Somerfield. "We've been told it's business as usual, but we don't know what's going on," said one petfood supplier, questioning the merits of the deal.

The Co-op Group chief executive Peter Marks said last week that he had not ruled out keeping all of Somerfield's store estate. However it is widely thought that Asda is keen to buy around 200 of the stores if the sale to The Co-op Group goes through, which could add to confusion among suppliers.

Meanwhile, support for the deal is increasing among The Co-op Group's rank and file, with members urging the society to buy Somerfield.

Writing on his blog, a member of the Devon and Somerset Area Committee of The Co-op Group who calls himself Michael, said he hoped the society did not pass up the opportunity to acquire the chain.

"This is perhaps the last chance to buy a national chain of stores and if we do not, no doubt one of the big four will," he said.

"I have always believed the purchase of Somerfield is important to the long-term success of The Co-op Group. I am delighted that Peter Marks is still interested in acquiring this company."

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