Co-op has revealed plans to launch 18 new or revamped stores within the first quarter of 2026.
The initial addition to the Co-op store chain in 2026 will be situated in the upcoming Willowbrook Park neighborhood in Didcot, Oxfordshire.
In addition to the new openings, several stores are set to undergo renovations, including the convenience store in Eastern Green, Coventry, and a franchise-operated outlet in Ealing, London.
Kate McCrae, Operations Director at Co-op, emphasized the company’s commitment to establishing local stores that serve as community hubs, offering quality products and great value through various deals and promotions.
Expressing enthusiasm about the new store in Oxfordshire, McCrae highlighted Co-op’s proactive approach in expanding its presence across the UK to better cater to diverse communities.
This development follows Co-op’s recent announcement of plans to create thousands of apprenticeships in the coming years. The company has pledged £70 million through its Levy Share service to generate 7,000 matched apprenticeships by 2030.
The initiative allows levy-paying employers to transfer unused apprenticeship levy funds to support businesses, charities, and community organizations. Since its launch four years ago, the scheme has successfully matched over 3,800 apprenticeships, with a significant portion benefiting deprived communities and the care sector.
Claire Costello, Co-op’s chief people and inclusion officer, highlighted the positive impact of the Co-op Levy Share program in transforming unused funds into valuable opportunities. The company is committed to furthering its efforts by investing £70 million to create additional apprenticeships by 2030.
Co-op also stressed the importance of collecting socioeconomic background data for apprenticeships to ensure inclusivity and prevent any groups from being marginalized by the system.
