In an assertive move to bolster its footprint across the UK, the Co-op has announced plans to launch 18 new stores while refurbishing existing sites in various locations from Sussex to Stirling. This initiative marks a significant step for the retail chain as it recovers from a recent cyber-attack that compromised sensitive data belonging to millions of its members.
New Stores and Refurbishments on the Horizon
The Co-op is set to open its first new store of 2026 in Didcot, Oxfordshire. Alongside this new outlet, the company plans to reinvigorate several existing locations, including a convenience store in Eastern Green, Coventry, and a franchise-operated site in Ealing, London. Kate McCrae, the Co-op’s operations director, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming openings, stating, “We’re focused on creating local stores which are more than just a shop—they are a hub locally that contribute to local life and conveniently meet the needs of communities.”
The new stores are part of the Co-op’s active strategy to enhance its presence on high streets and within communities nationwide. This expansion is not only about retail growth but also about reinforcing the Co-op’s commitment to local engagement.
Commitment to Apprenticeships
In a parallel effort to strengthen its community ties, the Co-op has reiterated its commitment to creating thousands of new apprenticeships over the coming years. The retailer has allocated £70 million through its Levy Share service to fund 7,000 matched apprenticeships by 2030. This initiative allows businesses, charities, and community organisations to benefit from unused apprenticeship levy funds, and since its inception four years ago, over 3,800 apprenticeships have been matched—two-thirds of which have supported individuals in the most deprived communities.
This focus on workforce development underscores the Co-op’s dedication to not only expanding its retail operations but also uplifting local economies by providing valuable training and job opportunities.
Recovery from Cyber Attack
The Co-op’s expansion plans come on the heels of a serious cyber incident that impacted the retailer in July 2025. Hackers accessed sensitive personal data belonging to 6.5 million members, including names, addresses, and contact information. While the attack forced the Co-op to temporarily shut down parts of its IT infrastructure, the company managed to prevent further damage and ransomware installation.
Chief Executive Shirine Khoury-Haq acknowledged the severity of the breach but reassured stakeholders that the Co-op is taking significant measures to enhance its cybersecurity protocols. “While we faced a substantial challenge, we’ve emerged with a renewed focus on strengthening our systems and protecting our members’ data,” she stated.
Why it Matters
The Co-op’s ambitious expansion and commitment to apprenticeships signal a proactive approach to recovery following a tumultuous period. As the company reinvigorates its operations and prioritises community engagement, it positions itself not only as a retail leader but also as a vital contributor to local economies. This strategy could enhance customer loyalty and trust, crucial factors in an increasingly competitive market landscape. The Co-op’s journey illustrates the resilience of businesses in the face of adversity, highlighting the importance of innovation and community investment in driving future success.
