Co-op to develop franchise stores
The Co-op has announced plans to develop a “significant” number of franchise stores as it looks to licence its brand to independent retailers for the first time in its history.
The stores will be in addition to the 100 new owned and operated stores that the business is planning to build in 2019.
In addition to having access to Co-op own brand products, Co-op franchisees will receive the support, tools and training to enable them to grow their business with the Co-op.
Martin Rogers, head of new channels at the Co-op, 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% 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.”
While offering both branded and own brand lines, franchised outlets will also provide shoppers with access to the Co-op’s membership scheme where they are given a 5% reward back on Co-op own-brand purchases. A further 1% is donated to local community causes.
