Following the first year of a support scheme which saw six new food brands listed in Co-op stores, the society has announced that it is searching for a second wave of small food businesses to take part.
Applications are now open for the accelerator scheme known as ‘the Apiary’, which works closely with local, smaller-scale suppliers to offer tailored support and mentoring on all aspects of the product journey, including industry and consumer insight, technical tips, and access to the convenience retailer’s buying teams.
Applicants will have the opportunity to pitch their products to Co-op buyers, and those selected will be invited to join the scheme.
Rebecca Oliver-Mooney, Co-op Head of Category – including Community Buying and The Apiary, said: “This is an exciting time for our Apiary programme – the search is now on for the next group of businesses to join our accelerator scheme in 2023. Innovation, provenance, quality, value and diversity is important to shoppers and, we really are looking forward to hearing from new, exciting and innovative producers.
“Previously, the Apiary programme has worked with businesses which have created: vegan; Indian; Malaysian and Asian-inspired recipes and, those with a focus on using ‘wonky’ fruit and veg to avoid food waste. Now we are keen to hear from more businesses with a real point of difference, who are values-driven and, offer something unique to interest and excite Co-op Members and customers.”
