THE Co-op is set to open a new eco store in Latchford on Friday as it relocates to a larger premises.

The relocation to Knutsford Road follows a £550,000 investment to better serve the community.

It is 1,200 sq ft larger than its previous store in Latchford, will support 13 local jobs and will run on 100% renewable energy.

Co-op’s new store includes: customer car parking, a coffee dispenser, Amazon lockers, a bakery, a free ATM, and self-service tills for added ease, speed and convenience.

This sits alongside its extended and enhanced range of fresh, healthy products, meal ideas, award winning wines, ready meals and pizzas, free-from, vegan and plant-based products, Fairtrade, and, everyday essentials.

A funding boost is also provided locally through Co-op’s Membership programme.

Membership of the Co-op unlocks additional value through in-store offers, and sees members rewarded with 2p in every pound they spend on Co-op branded products which is added to their own personal Membership account balance.

The Co-op also donates the same amount to local causes.

The local causes currently benefitting include: Community Objectives CIC; St Margaret’s Community Partnership and, Victoria Park Residents Association, which will help purchase litter picking equipment and fund computer classes.

St Margaret’s Community Partnership is also the store’s Food Share partner – a scheme designed to minimise food waste and redistribute any surplus food to those most vulnerable and in need of support in the community.

Ceris McBurney, Co-op store manager, said: “Our new-look store has a fantastic look, we are extremely proud to launch Co-op’s newest store and very excited to welcome customers old and new to see the extended, improved and new range on offer.

‘‘We have worked to develop the choice, products and services locally that I am confident will create a really compelling offer to serve our community.

“Co-op is committed to connecting communities and making a difference locally, and our aim is to operate at the heart of local life.

‘‘We also want customers to know that they can become a Member of the Co-op.

‘‘In addition to unlocking additional value and personalised offers for themselves, our members help to make a difference to local causes - Co-op donates 2p in every pound to community causes when Members swipe their Membership card when buying own-branded products – so by shopping at the Co-op our Members are also helping to make good things happen in the community.”