MANCHESTER UK, 2017-Sep-11 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Co-op has served-up its newest Welsh food store in Cwmbach following an investment of more than £500,000 creating up to 20 new jobs – the new store marks a return to the community for the Co-op which can trace its history in Cwmbach back to the 1850’s.
Located at the former car dealership site in Canal Road, Cwmbach, the new store will bring a funding boost to local community groups through its Membership scheme – Members receive a 5% reward on the purchase of own-branded products and services, with a further 1% benefitting local good causes.
Good causes initially benefitting include: Hirwaun OAP – which is raising funds for coach trips and days out for its members and, Women’s Aid – RCT (Wave) to run self-help groups to promote confidence and self-belief in local communities.
While local youth side at AFC Llywdcoed netted a new kit from the Co-opto kick-off its new season in style as part of the launch day activity.
Guests of honour at the opening of the store included Vicki Howells, Assembly Member for Cynon Valley, and Gerraint Hill, the former owner of the former car showroom which was located on the site.
The new Co-op will offer an in-store bakery, Costa coffee dispenser and customer car parking alongside its focus on fresh, healthy food, meal ideas and award winning wines.
Ben Williams, Store Manager, said:
“We are delighted to have made such a significant investment in Cwmbach and we have received a fantastic response from the community – it is an exciting time for the whole team to be involved in the opening of Co-op’s newest Welsh food store. Our ambition is to establish the store as a local hub, a real asset for the community. We also want shoppers to know that they can become a co-owner and member of their Co-op, and that we are also giving back to the community. Our members can make a difference locally, simply by swiping their membership card when they shop with us they can raise much needed funding for organisations in the area who contribute to improving local life.”
John Hillman, Acquisition Manager for the Co-op in Wales, added:
“The Co-op is moving forward with a clear purpose and momentum, and we continue to look for new sites where we can serve local communities and be at the heart of local life.”
The Co-op opened more than 100 new stores UK-wide last year, and has ambitions to open a similar amount this year and in subsequent years. Co-op members can receive £500 in Co-op vouchers if they successfully suggest a site for a new store. For more information visit https://www.coop.co.uk/forms/suggest-a-site
Further information about the benefits of Co-op membership and, its Local Community Fund, is available by visiting: http://www.coop.co.uk/membership/
Media Contact
Andrew Torr
Co-op Press Office
M: 07702 505 551
E: andrew.torr@coop.co.uk