A major takeover has been approved by members, paving the way for hundreds of stores and services to come under a single brand.
The deal will see more than 300 food stores, funeral homes and coffee shops become part of one of Britain's biggest retail co-operatives.
Co-op Group has confirmed its takeover of Southern Co-op after members overwhelmingly voted in favour of the merger at a Special General Meeting on Thursday.
More than 16,019 Southern Co-op members backed the deal, representing a significant increase in participation compared with an earlier vote.
The merger means Southern Co-op's portfolio of more than 300 food stores, funeral homes and coffee branches will be brought into the Co-op Group network.
A Southern Co-op spokesperson said: "Our members have voted to join forces with Co-op Group. Over 16,019 members voted significantly more than the first vote demonstrating strong engagement from our members with Southern Co-op's future."
The merger represents a lifeline for Southern Co-op, which faced the prospect of widespread store closures and potential administration had members rejected the deal, according to the company's chief executive.
By combining operations, the two organisations will form one of Britain's largest cooperative retailers, operating close to 2,300 stores nationwide with combined annual sales reaching approximately £11.5billion.
Members of Southern Co-op have voted decisively in favour of merging with the national Co-op Group | GETTYThe takeover plans were first announced on 8 April, and yesterday's vote provides the green light for the deal to proceed.
Southern Co-op has indicated that no immediate changes to store or funeral home operations are expected, with members continuing to use their existing cards and access their current benefits.
The spokesperson added: "This represents an important milestone, giving us a clear mandate to progress our plan to join forces for the benefit of members, colleagues and communities across the UK, while preserving the heritage and legacy of Southern Co-op and all that it stands for."
The substantially higher turnout compared to the initial vote demonstrates the membership's commitment to securing the organisation's future.
Co-op will gain roughly 300 food, funeral and Starbucks coffee branches
| PAStaff across Southern Co-op's operations will transfer to a Co-op Group subsidiary under TUPE regulations, ensuring their existing employment terms and conditions remain protected.
The deal aims to safeguard both jobs and the cooperative heritage that Southern Co-op has built over the years, whilst bringing the benefits of joining a larger national organisation.
The next stage in the process involves registering the planned transfer with the Financial Conduct Authority, with completion currently anticipated by the end of July.
Southern Co-op will continue operating as a standalone subsidiary within the Co-op Group structure
| PAThe Competition and Markets Authority will also examine the transaction, though this review will not delay the merger from going ahead.
During the CMA's assessment period, Southern Co-op will continue operating as a standalone subsidiary within the Co-op Group structure.
Once the FCA registration is complete, all assets, liabilities and employees will transfer to a Co-op Group subsidiary.
The spokesperson confirmed: "Alongside this, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will review the transaction, although this review won't affect completion of the merger."