Southern Co-op prepares to open its largest store yet

The Southern Co-operative is gearing up for the opening of what will be its largest store in its estate.

The 14,000sq ft flagship store is set top open in Freshwater on the Isle of Wight, where it has 12 other stores, in early 2015, with the creation of 40 new jobs.

It is being built directly opposite the old Freshwater store and will feature a much larger product range, including an in-store bakery and self service deli stocked entirely with locally-sourced meats and fish.

More than 40 Isle of Wight producers will also supply the store’s Local Flavours range.

Shoppers will also be able to taste wine at a new ‘sommelier station’ and choose from an increased range of ‘free from’ foods. There will also be a coffee area as well as a Post Office and ATM.

The number of parking spaces will double compared to the existing store and will include an electric vehicle charging point.

Paula Hunt, head of HR operations at The Southern Co-operative, is encouraging local people with a “positive outlook” and community values to attend a recruitment day on 28 and 29 of November.