Two co-operative Societies with a rich heritage – Central Co-op and Chelmsford Star Co-operative – have today announced that they are exploring ways to bring the two Societies together, with a recommended transfer of Chelmsford Star into Central Co-op.
Announced during the United Nations’ International Year of Co-operatives 2025, it marks a powerful commitment to co-operative growth, shared values and long-term resilience. Together, the two Societies aim to build a stronger co-operative that champions communities, empowers colleagues and delivers even greater value for members.
By joining Central Co-op, one of the UK’s largest independent co-operative societies, Chelmsford Star Co-operative would be part of creating a Society with a turnover of almost £1 billion – committed to sustainable growth and championing the co-operative difference at home and across the globe.
With over 320 years of combined co-operative heritage, the proposal reflects a shared ambition to create a vibrant, secure and sustainable future. Uniting these two Societies will strengthen their ability to navigate today’s unpredictable economic landscape – reinforcing shared co-operative values, creating a positive impact for the communities and members that they serve, and providing rewarding and sustainable careers for colleagues.
In a joint statement, Barry Wood, Chief Executive Officer of Chelmsford Star Co-operative and Debbie Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of Central Co-op said: “This is an incredibly exciting moment for co-operation. During the UN International Year of Co-operatives, we have a shared vision to be a leading force in the co-operative movement, realising the transformative impact that co-operatives have on economies, communities and individuals. In an increasingly competitive marketplace, we believe that by harnessing our shared values we will build a stronger and more secure Society.
We welcome the proposed transfer and invite members to support this important moment which will deliver a future that continues to put members, colleagues and communities at the heart of everything we do.”
Tony Price, President of Chelmsford Star Co-operative and Elaine Dean, President of Central Co-op said: “Central Co-op and Chelmsford Star Co-operative are committed to putting the interests of our members first and supporting the communities where we trade. The transfer will ensure that all members continue to have an important voice as part of a stronger, more secure Society – ready to serve them for many more years to come. Both Boards are supportive of this transfer of engagements and the exciting opportunities that it presents.”
Chelmsford Star Co-operative has a history of serving communities throughout Essex for more than 150 years with 34 food stores, as well as nine funeral homes and two travel agencies. In May 2025, prior to the approval of the transfer, it was decided that Chelmsford Star’s two department stores would be exited.
Central Co-op is one of the largest co-operatives in the UK, with a heritage stretching back over 170 years and businesses in food, funeral and property investment. Owned by more than 500,000 members, Central Co-op serves customers across more than 450 trading sites in 22 counties, including the surrounding Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire.
The proposed transfer requires approval by members of Chelmsford Star Co-operative at two Special Members’ meetings. The meetings will take place on Wednesday 16th July and Tuesday 5th August. For further information on these meetings, visit chelmsfordstar.coop. To find out more about Central Co-op, head to centralcoop.co.uk/, details on becoming a Member can be found at Members.coop.
