Co-op said it has invested over £3 million on new protective equipment to support frontline colleagues as part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The convenience retailer has started installing protective screens at its stores across the UK, and providing more gloves and hand sanitiser to frontline colleagues.
“Our colleagues are local heroes who have rolled up their sleeves and are working tirelessly to feed the nation,” said Jo Whitfield, chief executive of Co-op Food.
“They are working incredibly hard and doing their absolute best to serve the nation it’s only right that we look after them by providing as much safety kit as we can.”
The consumer co-operative, which has over 2,600 stores, is installing the Perspex screens at till points and serving counters. In addition, extra stocks of hand sanitisers have been distributed to its 50,000 frontline colleagues, along with gloves.
Co-op said it has airlifted in much of the protective gear as hospitals are being prioritized for the supply of the equipment.
The retailer has already recruited a further 5,000 people to help respond to the pandemic. It has also taken measures to ensure social distancing at stores, such as limiting the number of customers entering branches and floor markers which are placed 2m apart.
Co-op has also completed a full deep clean of all its 13 logistics depots and all its 2,000 vehicle cabs.
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