Coop prepares for expansion

The Swiss Coop intends to operate between 90 and 100 DIY stores with sales areas in excess of 5 000 m² by the end of 2005. One of the ways it intends to achieve this ambitious goal is by acquiring the Waro chain, some of whose 28 outlets are to transformed into DIY stores. However, the Swiss competition authorities still have to agree to the acquisition. Their decision is expected in February.