Co-op announces 24 new stores to open by July
The supermarket chain says it will undertake a transformative investment to its stores - with new ones set to open and refurbishments planned.
The Co-op has confirmed that 24 new and refurbished stores will be launched this summer. There will be some brand-new stores, with other shops set to re-open following a transformative investment. The brand’s growing franchise operation is set to open new sites, including on university campuses and petrol forecourts, at the end of June.
The investment will take the total number of stores launching in the first half of this year to more than 40, stretching from the south coast of England to the Scottish Highlands. It will include towns, villages and cities across the UK.
Co-op says it is committed to backing Britain’s high streets and communities. It adds that its focus is on providing the best small shops locally, acting as a community hub and destination locally.
The brand has pledged to offer quality and choice to customers alongside a range of added services, including coffee, payment services and parcel collection.
With 65 franchise stores operating at the end of 2025, Co-op aims to grow to over 100 franchise sites during 2026, including new locations on university campuses.
Around 90% of the UK population now has access to Co-op groceries online, through Co-op’s own online shop and strategic partners including Just Eat, Deliveroo and Uber Eats.
Orders are picked fresh in the local store, ensuring the high street store benefits from the online operation, and are delivered quickly and conveniently in the community.
Kate McCrae, Co-op Operations Director, said: “We’re investing to create local stores which are more than just a shop, they are a convenient hub contributing to local life and meeting the needs of communities.
“Whether it’s quality food for an evening at home, food and drink on the go, a top-up shop or, our wide range of added services – we’re here to serve and support communities, conveniently.
“Local shops are an anchor at the heart of local communities, and we’re moving through 2026 with a strong focus on our members, customers and communities, and a programme designed to enhance Co-op’s presence in high streets and communities across the UK.”
Full list of areas to see new Co-op stores:
- Cumbria
- Gloucestershire
- Kent
- London
- The Midlands
- Nottinghamshire
- Yorkshire
