Six new suppliers are set to see their products stocked in Co-op stores this month following the convenience retailer’s search for food and drink businesses to participate in its mentoring and support scheme, the Apiary.
The producers will see their brands stocked in more than 100 Co-op food stores as they become the third wave of suppliers to benefit from the retailer’s Incubator programme.
Co-op’s Apiary programme looks for suppliers with a unique point of difference who are values and purpose-driven and promote diversity and inclusion. The successful suppliers receive tailored mentoring, insight and advice on all aspects of the product journey.
New suppliers set for listings this month through the programme include Cháps – a brand dedicated to introducing beverages inspired by traditional African drinks to a global audience, Cheeky Nibble – a premium snacks and cereals brand, Eleat Cereal – a high in protein, high in fibre and low in sugar cereal brand, Loro Crisps – a vegan and gluten-free plantain crips brand, Family Secret Proppadoms – a healthy snacking alternative to poppadoms, and Some Grub – a dog treat brand.
Rebecca Oliver-Mooney, Co-op Head of Commercial for Drinks, Frozen, Community Buying & the Apiary, said: “Seeing these innovative new products hit Co-op shelves is always an exciting time for our Apiary programme. We know shoppers in a convenience setting look for great quality and innovation – products that make life easier, can be consumed on-the-go, or offer an element of indulgence.
“We believe making it easier for early stage businesses to become retail ready and thrive is the right thing to do, not only to delight our members and customers in store, but helping more producers grow towards their goal of becoming challenger brands. Going live in store is a key milestone for these brands, it is the beginning of the next chapter for the suppliers our Incubator is proud to work with – we are confident that these products all offer a real point of difference to enthuse, excite and resonate with shoppers in our communities.”
In September, Co-op revealed changes to its Apiary programme to enable it to work with more smaller-scale suppliers. As a result of the changes, the retailer is now also operating an Accelerator programme alongside its Incubator to further promote range diversity and supplier inclusivity.
NAM Implications:
- A great opportunity for six early-stage businesses.
- (presumably first-refusal opportunities for Co-op)
- A pointer for all retail in uncertain times?
