The retailer said the move is designed to “enhance grocery convenience on campus” by offering good quality, variety, and value tailored to students, researchers, and academic staff. Located at the University of Glasgow and the University of Birmingham, the stores will include multiple self-service checkout points to help speed up service during busy periods. Co-op already operates campus stores at several other Russell Group universities, including Leeds, Newcastle, and Warwick, with the Warwick outlet being its largest university-based franchise store.
These new stores will take the total number of Co-op stores on campuses to 14.
“We’re delighted to confirm our latest franchise partnerships and to be working with the universities of Birmingham and Glasgow,” said Co-op head of franchise development Jonathan Perry.
“These stores are designed to become genuine campus hubs, offering quality products, great value with a proposition tailored to the pace and needs of university life.
“Whether people are studying, living, working or visiting, Co‑op is focused on bringing the benefits of Co-op membership to more locations, and serving and supporting diverse and dynamic campus communities.”
University of Birmingham head of retail and brands Peter Kelland said: “We’re really looking forward to opening the new Co‑op on campus, giving students easy access to affordable, high‑quality food in a space designed around university life.
“Co‑op’s strong commitment to sustainability and community aligns closely with our values, and I am confident it will exceed both the students’ and staff’s expectations.”
University of Glasgow executive director of commercial services Ronnie Webster said: “We are always looking to improve our campus services, to give students and staff the best experience of university life.
“Having a Co-op will give everyone across our community the convenience to grab food, drink and household essentials close to where they work and study.”