Co-op has announced plans to open or revamp 18 stores across the UK in the first quarter of 2026, following a “transformative investment” aimed at enhancing the shopping experience on local high streets. The first new store will open in the Willowbrook Park development in Didcot, Oxfordshire, while revamped locations include a convenience store in Eastern Green, Coventry, and a franchise-operated site in Ealing, London.
The new and refurbished stores will offer a range of products including coffee, bakery items, Fairtrade goods, and fresh, healthy produce. Additional services will include payment facilities, parcel collection and returns, and online grocery home delivery.
Kate McCrae, Co-op’s operations director, said: “We’re focused on creating local stores which are more than just a shop, they are a hub locally that contribute to local life and conveniently meet the needs of communities. Our stores have a focus on quality products and value for our members and customers, with a great range of deals and promotions on the items shoppers want to buy.”
Co-op highlighted that approximately 86% of the UK population has access to its groceries online through its own shop and partners including Just Eat, Deliveroo, and Uber Eats. The chain also offers soft plastic recycling facilities in stores, accepting items such as crisp packets, bread bags, ready meal lids, biscuit wrappers, and pet food pouches.
