Co-op Bets on UK High Streets to Defy Retail Downturn

Co-op plans to open 75 new UK stores in 2025, countering the retail downturn threatening 200,000 jobs. This bold move includes franchise expansion, green initiatives, and refurbished sites, offering hope for the high street’s future.

Digital Worldwide News

January 3, 2025

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A Co-op store in Salford, one of the first new locations to open in 2025

Amid an ongoing high street crisis in the UK, the Co-op has unveiled ambitious plans to open 75 new stores and refurbish existing locations across the country in 2025. This announcement marks a significant shift in a retail landscape dominated by closures and job losses, offering a glimmer of hope for communities hit hardest by economic uncertainty.

The initiative includes innovative developments, such as the installation of up to 76,000 solar panels across 700 sites, and a focus on underrepresented areas like Newcastle and Salford Quays. With a strategy combining sustainability, convenience, and ethical retailing, the Co-op aims to redefine how retail businesses can adapt to shifting consumer behaviors and economic challenges.

Here’s how leading news outlets have reported on this story.

Bristol Live

Co-op announces major expansion with 75 new stores across the UK

According to Bristol Live, Co-op plans to strengthen its position in convenience retail by opening 75 new stores while refurbishing existing ones. The expansion is expected to provide better shopping experiences and enhance accessibility in local communities, with a focus on sustainable practices such as solar panel installations.

Retail Week

Co-op has set out its store expansion plans for 2025


Co-op is aligning its growth strategy with the increasing demand for convenience shopping. The retailer’s  is increasing efforts to lead in sustainability through initiatives like solar panel installations while addressing evolving consumer preferences with quick delivery options and ethical retailing

In addition to the expansion, Co-op has innovative plans for sustainability, particularly its solar panel installations. The publication frames these efforts as a forward-thinking approach to meeting both economic and environmental challenges.

Manchester Evening News

Co-op plans to open 75 new stores nationwide in 2025 expansion - including in Greater Manchester

According to Manchester Evening News, Salford Quays will be among the first locations to benefit from the Co-op’s 2025 expansion. The move is expected to boost job opportunities in Greater Manchester and improve local access to essential goods, reflecting Co-op’s commitment to community-focused growth.

Chronicle Live

Co-op announces huge expansion with 75 new stores this year including in North East


According to Chronicle Live, Newcastle Upon Tyne will see one of the first new Co-op stores in the 2025 expansion. The economic potential of this growth will be significant particularly in areas that have been heavily impacted by high street closures. Co-op’s innovative approach also focuses on convenience retail, including the introduction of stores on university campuses and in hospitals.

Grocery Gazette

Co-op ramps up expansion plans with 75 new stores openings in 2025


Co-op’s expansion strategy is aimed at consolidating its dominance in the convenience sector. The retailer plans to combine its growth efforts with sustainability, including installing up to 76,000 solar panels, and improving customer experience through refurbished locations.

Portsmouth News

Major UK grocer set to open 75 new stores and refurbish existing locations


Co-op’s commitment to environmental sustainability is at the heart of its expansion, with plans to install solar panels on 700 sites. The publication also highlights the retailer’s balanced approach to growth, combining the opening of new stores with upgrades to existing ones.