Six new suppliers are set to hit Co-op shelves this month, following the convenience retailer’s search for small food and drink businesses to join its accelerated support scheme, The Apiary.
The producers, including African-inspired soft drinks brand Cháps and high-protein cereal Eleat, will see their products stocked in more than 100 Co-op food stores as they become the third wave of suppliers to benefit from the programme.
Co-op said its Apiary scheme looked for suppliers with “a unique point of difference” that shared co-operative values, in a bid to “further promote diversity and inclusion” within its range.
The applicants received tailored support, mentoring and advice on all aspects of the product journey, including industry and consumer insight, technical hints and tips, and access to the convenience retailer’s dedicated buying teams.
Post-launch support will continue, including access to sales trends and data, plus training and mentoring with industry leaders and sector specialists.
The other four suppliers set to hit Co-op shelves this month thanks to the Apiary scheme include Cheeky Nibble, a vegan granola brand inspired by British desserts and drinks, which are handmade in a dedicated peanut and nut-free environment.
There is also a poppadoms producer, Family Secret, whose Proppadoms offer a “healthier snacking alternative”, and vegan and gluten-free plantain crisps brand Loro.
Finally, Co-op will be launching a range of dog treats supplied by Some Grub, marking the first time a petcare brand has benefited from Co-op’s Apiary programme.
“Seeing these innovative new products hit Co-op shelves is always an exciting time for our Apiary programme,” said Rebecca Oliver-Mooney, head of commercial for drinks, frozen, community buying & the Apiary at Co-op.
“We know shoppers in a convenience setting look for great quality and innovation – products that make life easier, can be consumed on-the-go, or offer an element of indulgence.
“We believe making it easier for early stage businesses to become retail ready and thrive is the right thing to do, not only to delight our members and customers in store, but helping more producers grow towards their goal of becoming challenger brands.
“Going live in store is a key milestone for these brands. It is the beginning of the next chapter for the suppliers our Incubator is proud to work with – we are confident that these products all offer a real point of difference to enthuse, excite and resonate with shoppers in our communities.”
The last wave of businesses joined the Apiary scheme in October last year, including Scrapples, The Woolf’s Kitchen and Urban Rajah.
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