Scottish Co-op has acquired the Rea's Select chain of Lanarkshire c-stores.
The Co-op has purchased the three branches for an undisclosed sum and will invest more than £600,000 in refitting the village stores in Carstairs, Carnwath and Forth.
All 47 staff will transfer their employment to the Co-op. Former owner and Top Shop award-winner Wilson Rea said he expected to remain involved in the industry and told C-Store: "We are renowned for our grocery range and were delighted to choose Scottish Co-op as purchaser. We are confident it can provide the same depth of range to our loyal customers."