Co-op has outlined details of the first stage of its ‘Retail Business Transformation’ (RBT) for its convenience store estate, which it describes as being the biggest transformation programme it has ever undertaken.
The society revealed that a system pilot was launched earlier this week with suppliers, which ultimately aims to support its “ambitious growth strategy”. This includes introducing new technology to improve ranging, stock holding, availability, and more accurate forecasting information. A new cloud-based Supplier Collaboration portal – Co-op Connect – has also been put in place.
The systems are now being tested in 24 stores, across five categories with 15 suppliers and around 300 SKUs. The categories being trialled are soft drinks, salads, paper, pizza and beer, working with suppliers including Coca Cola, Heineken, Agrial Fresh Produce, Bakkavor Pizza & Bread, and Kimberly Clark.
Michael Fletcher, Chief Commercial Officer at Co-op, commented: “The RBT programme is an integral part of Co-op’s on-going success, as we look to ensure that the technology we are using will future proof the business for many years to come. This pilot will allow us to work with suppliers to ensure that it is working perfectly before we roll it out elsewhere, and we are already getting positive feedback that the new portal is faster and easier to navigate.
“Investing in new technology will allow us to grow the business, helping to deliver a stronger Co-op that will result in stronger communities.”
Earlier this week, the retailer revealed that it was extending its pay-in-aisle technology trial to over 30 of its food stores across the UK by late August.
