Co-op has opened its third franchised unit this year in St. Helens, Merseyside. The outlet, a former SPAR, has been extended and transformed into a new 3,000 sq. ft. Co-op convenience store.
Stephen Richards, the store owner, commented: “We’re really excited to launch Co-op’s first franchise store in the town. It looks fantastic and we are looking forward to welcoming the community into their new store, where we have worked to develop the range, choice, products and services locally that will create a really compelling offer in the community.”
Martin Rogers, head of new channels at the Co-op, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Stephen and his store to the Co-op family, which is testament to the compelling franchise model we can offer independent retailers.
“Located in a great community and opposite a large sixth form college, this store is going to help us reach a younger demographic and help drive awareness of the Co-op values to new audiences.”
The Co-op says that customers will benefit from a comprehensive range of fresh, healthy produce, ready meals and pizzas along with an in-store bakery, award-winning wines, Fairtrade, free-from, and vegan options and a wide range of everyday grocery essentials.
The store also offers a large food to go proposition including sandwiches, drinks, Costa Coffee and a hot food range. The Co-op adds that the local community also benefits with funding to local causes through its Co-op Membership scheme.
Co-op franchises operate in a variety of settings from universities and independent retailers to Nisa partners, and recently opened its first franchise outlet at a service station in Cornwall. The company says that it offers a full-service franchise model and a unique proposition for independent retailers.