Co-op strengthens retail operation with supermarkets acquisition
WARWICKSHIRE-based Midcounties Co-operative has strengthened its retail operation with the acquisition of a chain of Welsh supermarkets and convenience stores.
The undisclosed deal has seen the Co-op take on Harry Tuffins, a family-owned grocery business headquartered in Churchstoke, mid-Wales.
The company employs 449 people across 10 sites in Churchstoke, Machynlleth and Knighton, all in Powys, Holywell in Flintshire, Craven Arms, Bishops Castle, Ludlow and Cleobury Mortimer, all in Shropshire, and Lydney and Coleford, both in Gloucestershire.
All staff have transferred to the Co-op following the deal – 152 of the staff work in Shropshire, with 67 in Gloucestershire.
The Co-op said its intention now was to grow the business, while maintaining the strong community associations it has built over the past 50 years.
Ben Reid, Midcounties chief executive, said: “As a member-owned society with values of democracy, openness, equality and social responsibility, we believe the fairer way we do business is an excellent match with the family ethos the company has long adhered to.
“We have plans to significantly invest in the estate but customers and our new colleagues can rest assured we fully appreciate how much this unique group of stores are cherished by their local communities.”
Harry Tuffins’ owners the Delves family said: “We are confident that in The Midcounties Co-operative we have found someone who shares our values and understands these stores have a special place in the community, and they will continue that tradition.”
