Co-op Wholesale and convenience store operator VST have signed a new five-year contract covering 35 stores, marked by the opening of the first outlet in the partnership – Loop Convenience in Weymouth.
The new Loop Co-op store has opened on Preston Road in Weymouth, converting a former Spar site at 216 Preston Road. The 2,000 sq ft store has been fully re-fitted and now displays Loop Convenience branding externally alongside “Proud to Stock Co-op” signs.
Partnership details
The deal will see VST stores converting to Loop Convenience throughout the South-west and along the south coast of England. The Weymouth store offers food-to-go lines including sandwiches, wraps and salads, along with an in-store bakery. It also provides fresh and chilled food, treats and snacks, soft drinks and alcohol.
To mark the opening, Co-op Wholesale’s charity, Making A Difference Locally (MADL), has donated £500 to the Margaret Green Animal Rescue centre.
Reactions from both companies
Ian King, business development and growth director at Co-op Wholesale, said: “Our new partnership with VST is one we’re exceptionally proud of, as they’re a highly reputable and well-scaled operator across the south coast and South-west.”
He added: “We’re confident we can support its ambitious growth trajectory through our excellent knowledge of wholesaling and highly skilled and supportive teams.”
Vijayananth Jaganathan, director at VST, said: “We’re delighted to have entered into this new contract with Co-op Wholesale. Moving 35 of our VST Loop Convenience stores to the Proud to Stock Co-op proposition feels very timely as we believe customers will enjoy shopping the Co-op brand in our stores now more than ever.”
