Co-op (02B) (017)

This Thursday will see the launch of Wales’ first Co-op franchise store, in Parc Derwen village in Bridgend.

The 2,700 sq ft Parc Derwen store opens between 7am-10pm daily, and has created 16 local jobs.

Martin Rogers, director of partnership development, Co-op, said: “We are delighted to open our first franchise store in Wales. It is a tried and tested model, where our franchise partners utilise Co-op’s market leading convenience expertise to operate their own store under Co-op’s iconic brand – allowing us to bring Co-op products to more places, closer to where our member-owners and customers live and work. It is a channel we are focused on growing, as we work closely with partners of pedigree who share our values and principles in order to expand our franchise operation.”

Suresh Edirimuni, Parc Derwen store manager, said: “We are delighted to launch to serve and support the Parc Derwen community, and really looking forward to welcoming member-owners and customers into their new Co-op. Our aim is to operate at the heart of local life, and we’ve worked to develop the range, choice and services to create a compelling offer to serve and support our community, conveniently.”