The Co-op to open franchise stores at University of Kent

The Co-op is set to open two new franchise stores with Kent Union, the students’ union at the University of Kent.

The partnership will see two existing student union stores converted into Co-ops. When they open in September, they will become the society’s first franchise stores on a university campus in the south of England.

The Co-op’s first campus franchise opened at Leeds University last month.

The new stores will be managed and run by Kent Union staff and its members, providing employment opportunities for students. Students can also get 10% discount on their groceries.

“This is an important development for Co-op. Franchise stores provide an exciting opportunity to grow our brand and generate mutual value with our partners,” said Co-op head of new channels Martin Rogers. “At the heart of the Co-op it is about connecting communities, bringing people together and making a difference. We have a long-standing partnership with NUS and so this relationship with Kent Union is a natural progression.”

Aaron Thompson, union president and chair of the board of trustees, said: “I’m really excited that Kent Union will be partnering with Co-op. One of the biggest pieces of feedback we get every year from students is that the prices in the shop are too high and I’m so happy we can finally address this issue. I believe that this partnership will offer Kent students better value for money, bigger product range and even bigger discounts.”