Co-op to open record 11 stores in one week

Co-op has revealed a record number of store openings in one week, with 11 set to open this week in communities across the country.

The investment in British high streets comes as the retailer continues it call on Government to deliver business rates reform to secure the future of small shops and community retail.

Co-op said that long-term investment confidence across the sector now depends on Government delivering the fair business-rates reform that has long been promised – giving thousands of small and independent retailers the certainty they need to plan, invest and protect local jobs.

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.

The latest openings are a mix of new stores, franchise operated stores and, those re-opening following transformative investment.

Among the stores opening include Co-op becoming the first permanent retailer at the new Brent Cross Town development (pictured) - a new park town for London where retail is a strategic component as part of a vibrant new high street and central hub serving homes, offices, education, sport and leisure facilities.

In addition, Co-op’s latest franchise store opening is in Frampton Cotterell (Bristol) and new-look stores are 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’re 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 retailer’s the stability to invest and grow.”