Lancaster University welcomes arrival of Co-op to enhance Campus convenience

Lancaster University's South Spine sees the launch of a new Co-op store to enhance grocery convenience on campus.

The convenience retailer and Lancaster University have worked together to launch the new store which is double the size of the previous store on campus and, has been tailored to meet the needs of those living, working and visiting the site.

At almost 2,500 sq ft, the layout and range has been developed to deliver a leading campus retail experience. In addition to seven permanent jobs, the store, which operates as a franchise, offers part-time and casual employment opportunities for upto 50 students.

The store has a focus on food to go, including meal deals, hot food, instore bakery and Costa coffee. The diverse international student, research and teaching population will see an extended world foods range, and this sits alongside an extensive range of fresh and healthy produce, ready meals, pizzas, and everyday essentials.

A focus on quick and easy customer service sees an array of 11 self-service till points. While the online delivery of groceries will be introduced soon after launch via Deliveroo and Uber Eats, with orders picked fresh in the store and delivered quickly and conveniently.

Member price savings create additional value for Co-op members who can save more with personalised offers, deals and promotions - lower prices on the products shoppers buy most.

Jo Hardman, Director of Commercial Services, Lancaster University, said: “Lancaster University is continually focussed on enhancing campus life for those studying, living, working, and visiting the University. Co-op have a strong ethical and sustainable ethos and we are pleased to see the launch of a new Co-op franchise store on campus which will be a welcome new addition for our campus community.”

Jonathan Perry, Head of Franchise Development, Co-op, said: "We’re delighted to unveil our latest Franchise partner store at Lancaster. The store looks fantastic, with a focus on being a hub offering high-quality products, great value, ethical retailing, and tailored ranges. Working with Universities allows us to bring Co-op quality, values and, all the benefits of membership, to more young people – we are focussed on serving and supporting diverse and dynamic campus communities.“

With a commitment to ethically sourced quality products, Fairtrade items are available across the store supporting farmers, workers and, their communities around the world who grow and produce ingredients and products for Co-op. Co-op also donates 3p per litre for sales of Co-op branded still, sparkling and flavoured water to water projects across the globe, helping to change millions of lives through clean water, hygiene, and sanitation projects in partnership with The One Foundation.

Backing British agriculture, all Co-op’s own fresh and frozen meat and dairy is 100% British – including in its pies, ready meals and sandwiches.

Soft plastic recycling is available in store, making it easier to return harder to recycle materials such as crisp packets and bread bags, lids from ready meals, biscuit wrappers and, pet food pouches.

Students can also secure a 5% member discount on Co-op renters’ insurance, whether they're living in halls or sharing a house. From laptops and phones, to bikes and TVs, Co-op Insurance provides affordable cover for the valuables students rely on every day, with protection against theft, loss, and accidental damage.

Co-op is one of the world’s largest consumer-owned co-operatives, with its history dating back more than 180 years. Co-op exists to create value for its membership and communities, its more than 6.5m members own the business and play an intrinsic part in the governance of the organisation.

More information about the benefits of Co-op Membership is available by visiting coop.co.uk/membership

For more information about Co-op's award winning franchise operation, visit coop.co.uk/franchise