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Co-op has announced its plans to continue growing its estate with a planned 75 new stores to open throughout 2025 across the UK.
The new stores will be a combination of Co-op estate and franchise stores.
Up to 25 stores are due to be operated by the retailer as part of its ambitions for 120 new stores over the next four years. The first new Co-op stores to open in early 2025 will be in Salford Quays and Newcastle-Upon-Tyne.
Meanwhile, up to 50 stores are expected to open and operate as a franchise this year to enable the retailer to “bring its products and the benefits of membership to more communities”, and operate in locations where it may not otherwise be able to access.
The move builds on franchise growth in 2024, which included new locations where Co-op shares its convenience expertise with other partners. Last year saw Co-op franchise stores open on more university campuses.
In addition to the new stores, around 80 further stores will undertake “major” refurbishments this year, which will transform the stores to “maximise their potential”.
According to Co-op, convenience is its core area of expertise, with its stores going beyond just offering traditional groceries. Other services include parcel collection and returns, payment services, and the retailer’s online quick commerce operation.
Matt Hood, managing director of Co-op, 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.”
He added: “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.”
