Co-op to open record 11 stores in one week

Co-op has announced that it is set to open 11 stores this week (24 November), a record for the supermarket.

The move is part of the retailer’s investment in more than 200 new and transformed stores over 2024/25, and among the 50 stores Co-op has confirmed will open this November and December, in time for Christmas.

Among the stores opening include Co-op becoming the first permanent retailer at the new Brent Cross Town development.

Co-op’s latest franchise store opening in Frampton Cotterell (Bristol) and, new-look stores re-opening following significant investment from Somerset to Inverness and the Scottish Highlands.

Last week, Co-op stores opened in Blaenavon, Oxenhope (near Keighley, Yorkshire) and Penkhull (Staffordshire).

Kate McCrae, Co-op operations director, said: “We are focussed on creating local stores which are more than just a shop – they are a hub locally that contribute to local life and meet the needs of communities, conveniently. We’re investing in stores and communities right across the UK because we believe in the future of the high street – creating local jobs and backing British farmers and suppliers.

“However, sustained growth needs certainty, and the Government now has an opportunity at this week’s Budget to deliver the fair business rate reform needed to give retailers the stability to invest and grow.”

The investment in new stores comes as the convenience retailer continues its call on the Government to deliver business-rates reform.