COOP opening @ HMS Collingwood, Hampshire

Co-op has revealed that it partnered with ESS Defence, specialist provider of foodservice and facilities management to military establishments across the UK, to open the leading convenience retailer’s first store on the UK Defence estate at HMS Collingwood.

The move forms part of Co-op’s growth ambitions for its franchise business and, is in line with ESS’ commitment to enhancing the lived experience of service personnel and the wider Defence community. Collaboration between ESS, Co-op, the Royal Navy and Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has delivered a purpose-built new retail facility in the Junior Ranks Mess. The product range has been tailored to reflect the population on site, which includes military personnel, civil servants and contractors.

Customers will have access to a wide range of branded and Co-op products, promotions including meal deals and the benefits of Co-op membership which creates additional value with member-only price savings across everyday essentials. Six self-service tills are added for added speed, ease and convenience, along with external digital media

Martin Rogers, director of partnership development at Co-op, commented: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with ESS, and our franchise partnerships bringing Co-op and the benefits of membership to new communities and more places. We’re really proud to launch a Co-op serving the HMS Collingwood community.”

Captain Tim Davey, Commanding Officer at HMS Collingwood, commented: “I was absolutely delighted to be part of the opening ceremony of the new Co-Op store in HMS Collingwood. The combined teams from ESS, Co-op and DIO - and many more here - have worked tirelessly to deliver an exciting new store with minimal disruption and it will certainly help to improve the lived experience and choices for the entire workforce in Collingwood.”