Co-op has revealed plans to launch 18 new or revamped stores within the first quarter of 2026. The initial store to open in 2026 will be situated in the newly developed Willowbrook Park neighborhood in Didcot, Oxfordshire.
Apart from the new store in Oxfordshire, several existing stores are set to reopen after undergoing renovations. These include the convenience store in Eastern Green, Coventry, and a franchise-operated location in Ealing, London.
Kate McCrae, Co-op’s Operations Director, emphasized the company’s commitment to establishing local stores that serve as community hubs offering quality products and value. The focus remains on providing deals and promotions that cater to the preferences of shoppers.
In a bid to expand its presence in various UK high streets and communities, Co-op has initiated an active store opening program for 2026. This move follows the recent announcement by Co-op to create numerous new apprenticeships in the coming years.
The retail giant has allocated a £70 million investment through its Levy Share service to generate 7,000 matched apprenticeships by 2030. This initiative allows levy-paying employers to transfer unused apprenticeship levy funds to support businesses, charities, and community organizations.
Since its inception four years ago, the scheme has successfully matched over 3,800 apprenticeships, with a significant portion allocated to deprived communities and the care sector. Claire Costello, Co-op’s chief people and inclusion officer, highlighted the company’s efforts to unlock unused levy funds for creating apprenticeship opportunities.
Co-op has also advocated for the collection of socioeconomic background data for apprenticeships to ensure inclusivity and prevent certain groups from being overlooked by the system.
