Co-op has today (31 July) announced the launch of a new chain of food-for-now stores, strategically situated in “high foot-traffic locations and designed to champion the convenience retailer’s on-the-go expertise,” via what it’s calling a ‘UK first’ format.
Diferent to any other in stores in its estate, the new format offerings are only a quarter of the size of Co-opo’s convenience offering, at 600-1,000 sq.ft each, with new operating hours and a dedicated range serving the demand for grab-and-go lines.
There will also be 30 new Co-op lines produced especially for the micro stores, including salad bows, toasties, granola pots and more.
The first new format store, in Solihull, opened this week, with another 15 planned over the coming months and a longer-term ambition of several hundred in the next two to three years, Co-op said.
The bespoke store design and offering will cater to meal solutions throughout the day, serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner in exciting new formats, from traditional meal deals to the inclusion of hot food served over counter - a first for Co-op - and a new deli-selection throughout the day.
Taking cues from around the world to meet consumer demand for fast, quality food, the new format supports Co-op’s growth ambitions and also gets closer to its consumers, it adds, with a blend of the best of European and Far East trends of serviced-over food-to-go propositions.
Co-op managing director, Matt Hood, said of the new stores: “They’re a perfect example of us using our expertise to refine our on-the-go offer so it’s focused on giving shoppers exactly what they need, when they need it.
“It’s a new concept, which we believe there’s a big demand for and which we can meet with delicious products, quick service, value and spot-on locations. I’m excited to see this evolution of Co-op stores, joining our traditional convenience stores across the UK. “
In another new move for the group, these new format stores will have unique opening times. The doors will open to the public between 7am-7pm, but the next phase will see stores turn to ‘dark trading’ in the evenings - including Co-op’s Irresistible Pizzas cooked and delivered in minutes.
Co-op’s pizzas will also be made available to purchase cooked in stores during the day - another first for Co-op - with shoppers given the option to purchase a hot slice or full pizza. Hot and cold drinks to be available include award winning wines and a carefully curated range of ready to drink single-serve cocktails.
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