Costcutter has officially unveiled its offer to independent retailers interested in taking on a Co-op franchise.
The package, which operates exclusively through Costcutter for retailers with 10 stores or fewer, was unveiled at the National Franchise Exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham earlier this month.
Senior figures from the Co-op and Costcutter, who are working together to deliver the proposition, showcased the new convenience retail franchise opportunity to delegates during the exhibition.
The two group’s stated that the new franchise opportunity enables investors to enter the growing convenience retail sector with “the backing of the UKs leading convenience retailer which is renowned for its award-winning own brand range, ethical sourcing and community programme”.
The Co-op franchise proposition already has seven stores in operation through the agreement with Costcutter. The existing stores are said to be seeing sales growth in excess of 50%.
Martin Rogers, head of new channels at the Co-op said: “This is a significant milestone in our franchise ambition and we’re looking for the right retailers in the right locations to share in our success and help widen the reach of Co-op products and share in the Co-op’s convenience success.
“We now have the capability to deliver franchising at scale, offering our award-winning food, in new places to attract new customers and members.”
Lucy Frost, Director of Franchise at Costcutter, added: “Having transformed three of our company owned stores into Co-op franchises, we have seen each increase turnover by a minimum 50%. Our experience of operating in convenience sector for over 30 years, together with the strength of the Co-op offer which our shoppers love, has created a strong franchise model.”
