The Co-op has unveiled plans to open 75 new Co-op stores across the UK this year, including 25 Co-op operated stores and up to 50 franchise outlets, while up to 80 further Co-ops will undertake major refurbishments in 2025.
The group could not confirm whether any of the 75 stores would be in Scotland, but work is already underway to improve its convenience offer North of the border, with a new site in Shawfair Park, Edinburgh, opening last month and stores in Balornock, Glasgow, and on North Berwick High Street, East Lothian, recently relaunching following major refits.
The first new Co-op-operated stores to open in early 2025 are located in The Anchorage, Salford Quays in Manchester and East Benton, Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Stores set to re-launch following major makeovers in early 2025 include those in Exeter; Brighton; Bristol; Cambridgeshire; Hampshire; Avonmouth; Hereford and Clapham.
The new stores go beyond offering traditional groceries, with added services designed to create a destination, including parcel collection and returns; payment services, and quick commerce.
Managing Director Matt Hood said: “We want everyone to have easy and convenience 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.”
