Co-op has relaunched its Queen Street, Exeter store following an eight-week transformation, marking the first of 80 major store refurbishments planned for 2025. The project is part of the retailer’s broader strategy to grow its convenience business, which also includes the opening of up to 75 new stores across the UK this year.
The refurbished store features a fresh new look with an enhanced range of fresh and healthy produce, an expanded selection of food-to-go and meal deals, and a focus on Fairtrade products. The in-store bakery and hot food selection have been expanded, alongside award-winning wines. Customers also have access to a Costa Coffee Express, PayPoint services, and an ATM providing cash access for the local community.
The Queen Street store now operates as a fulfilment hub for Co-op’s Quick Commerce operation, with online grocery delivery available through Just Eat, Uber Eats, and Deliveroo. Orders are picked fresh in-store and delivered quickly and conveniently to local customers.
Co-op continues its commitment to supporting UK farmers, ensuring that 100% of its fresh meat, including in ready meals, pies, and sandwiches, is British-sourced. Member-owners also benefit from lower prices on everyday essentials, reinforcing Co-op’s focus on value and community impact.
The Queen Street relaunch reflects Co-op’s ambition to strengthen and modernise its convenience store network. In addition to 75 new store openings in 2025, up to 80 existing stores will undergo significant refurbishments to improve customer experience and enhance local services.
Shaun Farleigh, store manager at Queen Street, said: “The whole team is excited to relaunch Co-op’s Queen Street store, it has been totally transformed with a great new look. We pride ourselves on delivering quality, choice, added services, and value, and we are really looking forward to welcoming our members and customers back into their Co-op store. We’re here to contribute to local life and conveniently serve and support our community.”
Rachel Hargreaves, director of property, development and estates at Co-op, added: “I am delighted to see Co-op’s first refurbishment of 2025 launch. Not only are we working to acquire new retail space, both freehold and leasehold, but we are also focused on maximising the potential of our existing estate as part of our convenience growth ambitions.
“Our stores are designed to be a destination locally, a community hub combining great quality products, value, deals, and ethical retailing with quick online delivery services, community participation, and additional customer services. We have a clear focus on growing our convenience business and enhancing the value we create and deliver for our member-owners and their communities.”
The newly refurbished Queen Street, Exeter store is now open daily from 6am to 10pm.
