Retailer is hoping to list new fruit-based snacks or healthy treats as part of its Incubator new supplier listing scheme, now open for applications
Fruit-based snacks and healthy treats are among the new products sought after by retailer Co-op as part of its Incubator programme for new listings.
The scheme, known as The Apiary, is now open for small businesses to apply and if successful, work towards a listing at Co-op.
Since it began in 2022, the Co-op has listed 86 new products from 34 suppliers, with this year’s focus on health trends such as high protein or healthy snacking. In particular, the retailer said it is looking for healthier savoury snacks; energy and high-protein snacks and, HFSS-compliant chocolate alternatives; fruit-based snacks; healthy sweet treats; functional drinks and confectionery; instant and ambient meal pots and pouches and, flavour-led impulse snacks with emerging global-inspired flavours.
Successful applicants receive support to strengthen their brand and business, including personalised mentoring, targeted masterclasses and a supplier peer network.
“We’re working to help agile new producers with the potential to disrupt and challenge the market to grow and develop to their next level, and so it’s incredibly exciting to begin the search for the next wave of suppliers to join our Incubator programme,” said Co-op buying manager, Katie Schofield.
“Shoppers in convenience stores are open to discovering new products - looking for quality, value and innovation with products that can be consumed on-the-go or offer an element of healthy indulgence. We are looking for exciting and emerging new products from purpose-led suppliers with a real point of difference that can enthuse, excite and resonate with our customers.”
Applications close on 22 February and should be submitted by creating a Co-op RangeMe account.
