Co-op to boost high streets and local communities across Britain with 24 new stores and refurbishments launching in this Quarter (to end of June).
The investment will take the total number of stores launching in the first half of this year to more than 40, stretching from the south coast of England to Scottish Highlands, including towns, villages and cities in Cumbria; Gloucestershire; Kent; London, the Midlands; Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire.
Co-op stated that its focus is on providing the best small shops locally, acting as a community hub and destination locally. Offering great quality, choice and value for customers in every UK postal area alongside a range of added services including coffee; payment services, parcel collection and quick commerce - the rapid home delivery of online orders.
Franchise stores bring the benefits of membership to new and diverse communities. With 65 franchise stores operating at the end of 2025, Co-op aims to grow to over 100 franchise sites during 2026, with new locations including university campus growth – serving dynamic and diverse campus communities; hospitals and, petrol forecourts - where Co-op combines its convenience expertise with leading forecourt operators.
Co-op stores also act as micro distribution hubs locally for its award-winning quick commerce operation.
Around 90% of the UK population now has access to Co-op groceries online, through Co-op’s own online shop and strategic partners including Just Eat, Deliveroo and Uber Eats. Orders are picked fresh in the local store, ensuring the high street store benefits from the online operation, and are delivered quickly and conveniently in the community.
Kate McCrae, Co-op Retail Director, said: “We’re investing to create local stores which are more than just a shop, they are a convenient hub contributing to local life and meeting the needs of communities.
"Whether it’s quality food for an evening at home, food and drink on the go, a top-up shop or, our wide range of added services – we’re here to serve and support communities, conveniently.
"Local shops are an anchor at the heart of local communities, and we’re moving through 2026 with a strong focus on our members, customers and communities, and a programme designed to enhance Co-op’s presence in high streets and communities across the UK.”