Co-op is gearing up for a major expansion with plans to launch 75 new stores throughout the year. The retail giant has revealed the first openings are set for Salford Quays and Newcastle Upon Tyne, though exact dates are still under wraps.
Out of the total, Co-op will operate 25 outlets directly, with the rest operating as franchises. This move is part of a broader plan to unveil 120 new Co-op shops over the coming four years.
In addition to new openings, Co-op is also investing in revamping 80 current locations this year. Early 2025 will see revamped stores in various areas, including Exeter, Brighton, Bristol, Cambridgeshire, Hampshire, Avonmouth, Hereford, and Clapham.
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Last year marked significant strides for Co-op’s franchise sector, with new stores popping up on university campuses, an inaugural hospital store, collaborations with EG On The Move at petrol stations, and even a presence at HMS Collingwood in partnership with ESS. Co-op’s Managing Director, Matt Hood, emphasised their vision: “We want everyone to have easy and convenient access to a Co-op store, wherever they live, and this year we are completely focused on achieving that through an ambitious and exciting new stores strategy.”
“Not only are we a membership organisation owned by our six million members, we are experts in convenience shopping, where we combine great quality products, value and deals and ethical retailing with quick online delivery services, community participation and additional customer services. Our stores play an active role in local life, and are often a community hub, providing the products and services our members and customers want and need.”, reports the Mirror.
This update arrives after Co-op discontinued loyalty rewards for its Co-op Membership customers the previous year. Formerly, shoppers earned 2p for every £1 spent on Co-op branded goods or services – a scheme which came to an end with an announcement from the chain stating that customers needed to use any accumulated rewards balance by December 31.
Explaining the change, Co-op remarked: “Rather than earning a few pence on rewards, our Members will now make substantial savings on their shop with immediate discounts being applied at the till. Overall, a bigger saving on Co-op, and branded products.”