Co-op to Stop Sourcing from Israel and Other "Concern" Countries

The Co-op has announced a decision to cease sourcing products from Israel and other nations identified as areas of concern. This move is part of a broader initiative aimed at promoting peace and cooperation. The company's decision follows the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which began with the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas.

The company's policy focuses on countries where there are "internationally recognized community-wide human rights abuses and violations of international law." The grocer will, where possible, avoid using ingredients or selling whole products from a list of 17 countries of concern. This list includes items such as Russian vodka, mangoes from Mali, and carrots from Israel. These products will be phased out of Co-op stores, starting this month.

The policy was approved by the Co-op Group Board and coincides with the start of Co-op Fortnight in the UK. It is the result of a year of "detailed analysis" and is based on three key criteria. These include agreement across respected assessments of behavior that constitutes human rights abuses or violations of international law, the potential for Co-op's actions to make a difference to those affected, and the assurance that the grocer's actions will not negatively impact its commercial success or its alignment with cooperative values.

Co-op members have expressed concerns about conflict through surveys, engagement, and motions, emphasizing their desire for the company to advocate for and build peace. Debbie White, chairwoman of the Co-op Group Board, stated that the policy is a demonstration of the company's cooperative values in action, reflecting the voices of its members. The company is committed to removing products and ingredients from countries where there is a lack of alignment with its values and principles. The policy is seen as a natural progression of the company's long-standing commitment to ethical sourcing and supporting Fairtrade.