🎉 Exciting news from Co-op! Just in time for the festive season, they’re rolling out 50 brand new or revamped shops before Christmas! 🎄 This push is part of their ambitious plan to launch and refurb over 200 outlets this year alone, with a whopping £200 million investment.
This expansion isn’t just about new places to shop; it’s about breathing life back into the high street. Co-op is opening 14 brand-new stores, including becoming the first permanent retailer at the buzzing Brent Cross Town development in London and a fresh franchise store at Lancaster University. Plus, they’re unveiling five new ‘on the go’ micro-format shops perfect for the quick-stop shopper.
The remaining stores? They’re making a comeback too, reopening after major makeovers and ready to wow customers with a fresh look and updated product range. 🌟
Co-op’s growth comes after overcoming a tricky cyber attack earlier this year, proving that resilience is key. As the group, which boasts around 6.9 million member-owners, calls on the Government for business rates reform, it’s clear they’re not just thinking about their stores but the future of the high street as a whole.
Shirine Khoury-Haq, Co-op’s CEO, emphasises the need for certainty and reform to protect jobs and keep local economies buzzing. She sees this expansion as a testament to the power of businesses investing in communities. 🏬💪
As we await the autumn Budget, the call is clear: it’s time for the Government to deliver on the promises of business rate reform — giving retailers the stability they need to thrive.
What do you think? Are you excited for a Co-op opening near you? Share your thoughts below! 🛒💬