Convenience chain is looking to take a bigger slice of the food-for-now market
The Co-op is claiming a UK first with the launch of a new chain of food-for-now stores in high-foot-traffic locations.
The new ‘on-the-go’ format – at 600-1,000 sq ft of net sales area – is around one-quarter of the size of its typical convenience stores, and features new operating hours and a dedicated range that serves the demand for the growing ‘grab-and-go’ consumer culture.
The first store opened on 31 July in Solihull, with another 15 opening over the coming months and a longer-term ambition of reaching several hundred in the next two to three years.
The bespoke store design and offering will cater to ‘on-the-go’ key meal solutions throughout the day, serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner in new formats, from traditional meal deals to the inclusion of hot food served over the counter – a first for the Co-op – and a new deli selection offering product innovation for any time of the day.
The Co-op said the format builds on its convenience expertise and takes cues from around the world to meet consumer demand for fast, high-quality food on the go. It aims to get closer to consumers with a blend of the best of European and Far East trends of ‘serviced-over’ food-to-go propositions, which bring together time of day and freshly prepared products designed to stand out in the high street.
Matt Hood, Co-op Food MD, said: “We are always looking at new ways to deliver convenience to our members and customers and these new stores are a perfect example of us using our expertise to refine our ‘on the go’ offer so it is focused on giving shoppers exactly what they need, when they need it.
“It’s a brand-new concept, which we believe there is a big demand for and which we can meet with delicious products, quick service, good value and spot-on locations. I’m excited to see this evolution of Co-op stores join our traditional convenience stores across the UK.“
The new format stores will open between 7am-7pm, with the next phase seeing the store turn to ‘dark trading’ in the evening, such as offering Co-op’s Irresistible Pizzas cooked and delivered to consumers’ door in minutes.
