Southern Co-op to merge stores in Binfield and Denmead

Southern Co-op said it will be closing a store each in Binfield and Denmead, where the retailer runs another store nearby.

The independent, regional co-operative currently runs two convenience stores around 60 metres from each other in Denmead and the two stores in Binfield  are around 90 metres from each other.

They will be merging in April/May this year with the focus moving to the larger of the two stores in each location which offers longer opening hours.

With colleague hours and job roles remaining the same, Southern Co-op said the move will see improved customer services and more consistency whilst enabling the store to remain competitive and have a sustainable operating model.

Post Office services will be relocated to the existing retail counters in the larger store, and the move would mean the Post Office is open much longer – an extra 59 hours a week including much earlier opening and significantly later closing at both locations.

“It is important to us to continue providing much needed services to our customers and the local community,” Simon Eastwood, chief operating officer for retail at Southern Co-op, said.

“Whilst we have decided to close our smaller (Denmead and  Binfield Post Office) stores, we want to reassure customers that all of the services will be transferred across the road and they will see the same familiar faces behind the tills.”