“Euan Sutherland is obviously a man of considerable intellect and ability, but if he feels that he cannot be a successful CEO for the Co-operative Group then it is right that he has resigned. The Co-operative Group is an important British business. It is a presence in every community and a major employer, but more than that for many of us it embodies the idea that there is a different, more socially responsible and more sustainable way of doing business. 

“The Co-operative is going through a tough and turbulent time and what is now important is that a Chief Executive is recruited who has a vision for coupling the best of the Co-op’s past with a clear vision for the future.  A rebuilt, refocused and more resilient Co-operative Group should be a part of inspiring a more co-operative society and can benefit from doing so with a legion of dedicated members and customers that share its values.”