The Co-op has announced plans to launch a franchise offering for the first time in its 175-year history.
The supermarket retailer said that it plans to create ‘a significant number of new Co-op branded stores’, as well as license its brand to independent retailers.
This comes as part of its progressive expansion plans to launch around 100 new stores this year.
The franchised stores will have access to all Co-op own brand products as well as offer customers the Co-op membership card.
Martin Rogers, Co-op’s head of new channels, said, “This is a significant milestone in our franchise ambition and we’re looking for the right retailers in the right locations to share in our success and help widen the reach of Co-op products,”
“We have been trialling our franchise model since last spring, with our fourth store opening this month, and we have seen a minimum 50 per cent uplift on sales in these stores.
“We now have the capability to deliver franchising at scale, offering our award-winning food, in new places to attract new customers and members.”
