The Co-op has revealed ambitious plans for a significant expansion across the United Kingdom, with the opening of 18 new stores and the refurbishment of existing outlets set to commence this year. This strategic move aims to bolster the retailer's presence on high streets and within local communities, creating hubs that cater directly to neighbourhood needs.
New Store Openings and Community Focus
The first of these new stores is scheduled to launch in Didcot, Oxfordshire, in 2026, marking the beginning of a broader initiative to enhance Co-op's footprint nationwide. By investing in physical retail spaces, the Co-op seeks to strengthen its role as a community-centric provider, offering convenient access to essential goods and services.
Apprenticeship Investment and Social Impact
In parallel with its store expansion, the Co-op has committed £70 million through its Levy Share service, with the goal of creating 7,000 matched apprenticeships by 2030. Launched four years ago, this scheme has already successfully matched over 3,800 apprenticeships, prioritising opportunities in deprived communities and the care sector to foster social mobility and skills development.
Recovery from Cyber Attack Challenges
These expansion plans unfold as the Co-op continues to navigate recovery from a significant cyber attack, which compromised the personal data of 6.5 million members, including names, addresses, and contact information. The retailer is working to rebuild trust and enhance security measures while pushing forward with its growth strategy.
Overall, the Co-op's dual focus on retail expansion and apprenticeship investment underscores its commitment to supporting UK communities, even as it addresses past challenges to ensure a resilient future.
