Co-op is set to open 75 new stores this year as it ramps up its presence across the UK.
The additions will include 50 franchise stores, as it continues to pursue openings with independent operators following “strong growth” in 2024.
Last year, Co-op opened franchise stores on more university campus, at the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham, on petrol forecourts in partnership with EG On The Move, as well as at HMS Collingwood.
Co-op said these partnerships enabled it to “bring its products and membership benefits to more communities” as well as “operate in locations where it may not otherwise be able to access”.
The new stores opening this year will also include 25 company-owned sites, with the first ones to open in Salford Quays and Newcastle. These form part of Co-op’s ambitions to open 120 new stores over the next four years.
In addition, up to 80 existing stores will also undertake major refurbishments in 2025. Those set to relaunch are in areas including Exeter, Brighton, Bristol, Cambridgeshire, Hampshire, Avonmouth, Hereford and Clapham.
“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,” said Co-op MD Matt Hood.
“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.”
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