Southern Co-op has agreed a franchise partnership with Wenzel’s, a family-run bakery retail chain that operates from over 100 sites in the south of England.
This collaboration marks Wenzel’s first franchise deal, 50 years since it was established by its founder, Peter Wenzel.
Southern Co-op, which operates around 200 convenience stores, noted the new partnership reflects its strategy to expand into the growing food-to-go market.
The first store under the new franchise model is scheduled to open in Guildford in early September, with additional locations expected to follow in the near future.
“We’re incredibly excited to partner with Wenzel’s as they take their first step into franchising,” said Nick Smith, Central Services Director at Southern Co-op.
“This partnership represents a powerful alignment of values – great food, great service and a great opportunity to grow. We’re confident that this is only the beginning of a successful journey together.”
Sarah Wenzel, CEO of Wenzel’s, added: “We’re delighted that Southern Co-op have chosen to be our franchise partner and are confident that our collaborative partnership will be mutually beneficial and rewarding in the coming year.
“Southern Co-op is a business that has consistently put the community first, and with this shared vision of offering high-quality food for all, we’re in a strong position to bring delicious, freshly baked goods at accessible prices to even more customers across the UK”.
NAM Implications:
- Footprint enlargement for Wenzel’s.
- Improved food-to-go offering for Co-op.
- Opening up possibilities for expansion to other Co-op societies?
