Co-op has revealed plans to launch 18 new or revamped stores in the initial quarter of 2026.
The first fresh Co-op outlet in 2026 is set to debut in the upcoming Willowbrook Park neighborhood in Didcot, located in Oxfordshire.
Additionally, certain stores are slated for reopening following renovations, such as the convenience store in Eastern Green, Coventry, and a franchise-operated establishment in Ealing, London.
Kate McCrae, Co-op Operations Director, emphasized the company’s dedication to establishing local stores that serve as community hubs, offering quality products, value, and a variety of promotions to cater to the needs of members and customers.
Expressing excitement about the launch of the inaugural store in Oxfordshire, McCrae highlighted Co-op’s strategic initiative to expand its presence in various UK high streets and communities throughout 2026.
In a related development, Co-op recently announced a significant commitment to create thousands of new apprenticeships in the coming years. Through its Levy Share scheme, the retail giant will invest £70 million to generate 7,000 apprenticeships by 2030, allowing levy-paying employers to transfer unused apprenticeship funds to support apprenticeship programs in businesses, charities, and community organizations.
Since its inception four years ago, the scheme has successfully matched over 3,800 apprenticeships, with a focus on disadvantaged communities and the care sector. Claire Costello, Co-op’s chief people and inclusion officer, highlighted the impact of the Co-op Levy Share program in creating opportunities and transforming unused levy funds into valuable apprenticeships.
Furthermore, Co-op called for the collection of socioeconomic background data for apprenticeships to ensure inclusivity and prevent certain groups from being left behind in the system.
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