The Co-op Group is set to launch or extensively refurbish 18 convenience stores across the United Kingdom during the first quarter of 2026, including the opening of a new store in Cruden Bay. This nationwide programme underscores the retailer’s commitment to enhancing local community access to its services and products.
Among the planned developments, three Scottish locations are earmarked for significant changes. The Cruden Bay opening is anticipated to be a welcome addition for residents, who currently travel to Peterhead for larger supermarket facilities, including their nearest existing Co-op branch. Separately, Co-op outlets in Tarbert, Argyll, and Killearn, situated north of Glasgow in Stirling, are scheduled for comprehensive refurbishments. Specific opening and relaunch dates include Cruden Bay and Killearn on 26 February, with Tarbert following on 12 March.
Kate McCrae, Co-op Operations Director, articulated the strategic vision behind these investments, stating: “We’re focused on creating local stores which are more than just a shop – they are a hub locally that contribute to local life and conveniently meet the needs of communities.”
“Our stores have a focus on quality products and value for our members and customers, with a great range of deals and promotions on the items shoppers want to buy.”
The revitalised and new Co-op stores are designed to offer a comprehensive retail experience, including coffee and bakery selections, an array of Fairtrade products, and fresh produce. They will also incorporate various added services such as payment facilities, parcel collection and returns, and locally fulfilled online home delivery, aiming to serve as central community points. Soft plastic recycling facilities will also be available, providing a convenient option for shoppers to manage difficult-to-recycle materials.
The full list of new or transformed Co-op stores confirmed for the first quarter of 2026 includes:
- Didcot, Kilburn Place, Oxfordshire
- Eastern Green, Coventry, West Midlands
- Cove – Fernhill Road, Hampshire
- Totton, Southampton, Hampshire
- Killearn, Main Street, Stirling
- Main Street, Newark, Nottinghamshire
- Straits Parade, Fishponds, Bristol
- Lustrells Vale, Brighton, East Sussex
- Westgate, Skelmersdale, Lancashire
- Marske, High Street, North Yorkshire
- Worle, High Street, Somerset
- Cruden Bay, Aberdeenshire
- Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire
- Whitemans Green, West Sussex
- Ealing, London
- Deal, Kent
- Farnsfield – Main Street, Newark, Nottinghamshire
- Sidmouth, Devon
- Saltdean – Lustrells Vale, Brighton, East Sussex
- Tarbert, Argyll
- Cuc
