GUELPH, ON, Jan. 28 /CNW/ - The Co-operators announced today that
BMO Capital Markets Real Estate Group will begin marketing its office building
portfolio.
    A strategic review of The Co-operators investment strategy determined
that real estate assets are not a core element. The Co-operators group of
companies owns office buildings, commercial and retail properties across
Canada.
    "The organization will benefit from a sharper, more strategic focus on
our core businesses of providing insurance and financial services to
Canadians," said Kathy Bardswick, president and CEO of The Co-operators.

    About The Co-operators:

    Based in Guelph, Ontario, The Co-operators is a group of Canadian
companies offering home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm
insurance, as well as investment products and property development. With
assets of more than $7 billion, The Co-operators is owned by a group of
Canadian co-operatives, credit unions and like-minded organizations. It is
well known for its community involvement, and is listed among the 50 Best
Employers in Canada.

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For further information: Leonard Sharman, The Co-operators,
1-877-795-7272, ext. 2707