Co-op plans to open 50 new or refurbished stores across the UK before Christmas, as part of its ongoing investment in local high streets.
The openings, scheduled for November and December, include a new outlet at London’s Brent Cross Town development and five smaller-format stores. It also includes a franchised branch at Lancaster University’s campus.
Shirine Khoury-Haq, Co-op Group CEO, said: “We’re investing in stores and communities right across the UK because we believe in the future of the high street. But sustained growth needs certainty. Business rates reform is vital if retailers – especially the 99% who run small stores – are to plan with confidence, protect jobs and keep local economies thriving.'
The retailer has also urged the Government to introduce business rates reform in the upcoming Autumn Budget to help support local retailers.
Last month, Co-op’s wholesale partners similarly called for an extension of business rates relief, warning that many stores could be at risk without continued support.
Khoury-Haq added: “Co-op is showing what’s possible when businesses commit to communities. The Government now has an opportunity in the Autumn Budget to do its part by delivering the reform that’s long been promised – giving every retailer, from small to large, the stability to invest and grow.”
This store expansion forms part of the convenience retailer’s £200 million investment for 2024/25, which will see more than 200 new and refurbished stores opened across the UK.