Co-op plans dozens of new and refurbished stores as it calls for business rates reform

The Co-op is proceeding with plans to open 50 new and refurbished stores by Christmas, continuing its recovery from a cyberattack earlier in the year. This expansion will bring the total number of opened and renovated sites to over 200 in the current financial year, with an investment exceeding £200 million. The new openings include 14 new outlets, such as the first permanent retailer at the Brent Cross Town project in London, five "on the go" convenience shops, and a franchise at Lancaster University, with the remainder being refurbished stores. The Co-op is also using this expansion to call for government reform of busines... download the app to read more