Co-op to Launch 24 New and Refurbished Stores Across UK in Q2 2026
UK retail giant Co-op has confirmed plans to launch 24 new and refurbished stores before the end of June 2026, continuing its rapid expansion across Britain’s convenience retail sector.
The latest investment programme includes a mix of brand-new stores, refurbished community locations reopening after major upgrades, and additional franchise-operated sites. The move follows the opening of 18 stores during the first quarter of 2026, taking the total number of launches in the first half of the year to more than 40.
The new openings will span locations across England and Scotland, including Cumbria, Gloucestershire, Kent, London, the Midlands, Nottinghamshire, Yorkshire and the Scottish Highlands.
Co-op said the expansion reflects its continued commitment to supporting local high streets and strengthening community retail hubs.
The retailer is focusing on smaller convenience-led formats designed to provide essential everyday shopping alongside additional services such as parcel collection, coffee stations, payment services and rapid grocery delivery.
A major part of the rollout is being driven by Co-op’s expanding franchise operation. The business ended 2025 with 65 franchise stores and is aiming to exceed 100 franchise locations during 2026.
New franchise sites are expected to include university campuses, hospitals and petrol forecourts, allowing Co-op to extend its convenience model into high-footfall and non-traditional retail environments. The retailer said these partnerships help bring the benefits of Co-op membership to wider and more diverse communities across the UK.
The company’s convenience strategy is also closely tied to its growing quick commerce network. Around 90% of the UK population can now access Co-op groceries online through the retailer’s own digital platform and delivery partnerships with companies including Just Eat, Deliveroo and Uber Eats.
Local stores also function as micro-distribution hubs, enabling rapid fulfilment of online grocery orders picked directly from nearby branches.
Kate McCrae, Retail Director at Co-op, said the retailer is continuing to invest in stores that serve as more than just shopping destinations.
She said: “We’re investing to create local stores which are more than just a shop, they are a convenient hub contributing to local life and meeting the needs of communities.”
Alongside its expansion plans, Co-op continues to highlight sustainability and British sourcing initiatives. Soft plastic recycling points are available in stores, helping customers recycle materials that are not commonly accepted in household collections. The retailer also confirmed that all of its own-brand fresh and frozen meat products remain 100% British.
Founded more than 180 years ago, Co-op remains one of the world’s largest consumer-owned co-operatives, with more than seven million members across the UK.
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