Co-op Goes Small to Serve Big: ‘On The Go’ Stores Hit the High Street

Co-op has launched its new chain of ‘food-for-now’ stores, Co-op On The Go. Its first On The Go store opened yesterday (31 July) in Solihull, with a further 15 openings planned over the coming months.

The micro-stores, which will typically be a quarter of the size of its usual convenience shops, will offer fast, high quality food options to meet growing consumer demand for ‘grab-and-go’ eating.

Strategically situated in high footfall locations, Co-op On The Go will operate different hours from Co-op’s traditional stores, allowing it to offer key meal solutions throughout the day – from breakfast through to dinner. In addition to regular meal deals, the mini-stores will also include hot food served over counter, a first for Co-op, and a new deli section.

The new outlets support the retailer’s growth ambitions – and it hopes to reach several hundred On The Go stores within the next 2-3 year via new locations and existing store refits.

“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,” said Matt Hood, MD of Co-op Food.

“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,“ Hood added.

Initially, the new format stores will be open between 7am-7pm, however, in the next phase, Co-op plans to keep stores open for ‘dark trading’ in the evenings, serving hot food, such as Co-op pizzas, for home delivery.

Source: Retail Rewired