Co-op to embark on store opening spree
Retailer the Co-op plans to open 75 new sites this year (2025), across the UK.
The new stores will be both Co-op estate stores and Co-op franchise stores, a sector the convenience retailer has actively pursued recently. In addition to the new stores, around 80 further stores will undertake major refurbishments in 2025.
Matt Hood, Co-op’s Managing Director said: “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.”
Co-op’s plans for new stores in 2025 include up to 25 new Co-op operated stores – part of ambitions for 120 new stores over the next four years – with the first new Co-op stores to open in early 2025 in: Salford Quays – The Anchorage and East Benton – Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Up to 50 stores are expected to open and operate as a franchise in 2025.
Last year (2024) saw Co-op franchise stores open on more university campuses; a first for Co-op with a store opening in a hospital, on petrol forecourts (in partnership with EG On The Move), plus a Co-op store at HMS Collingwood (in partnership with ESS).
