A U.K. retailer is set to begin offering legal services to customers after being one the first three entities to receive Alternative Business Structure (ABS) licenses, the Solicitors Regulation Authority announced Wednesday.
The Co-operative Group-which already operates a diversified range of member-owned businesses that includes nationwide grocery and financial services chains-will now provide legal advice under the banner of Co-operative Legal Services (CLS). Joining CLS in being granted ABS licenses are two law firms: Oxford-based John Welch & Stammers and Lawbridge Solicitors of Kent.
