Co-op look to open new branch by the river in Greenwich
Co-op have submitted plans to open a new branch at a Thames-side site in Greenwich.
The plans would see a shop open at the base of one of River Garden’s blocks.
This site is a short distance from a planned Hop Stuff pub opening at another unit within the same development.
This is a wealthier part of town and makes me wonder about Co-ops re-positioning as a higher end retailer. In recent times they’ve closed branches at Plumstead High Street and Abbey Wood estate, to name just two locations, whilst opening in wealthier areas.
Given the history of the Co-op in the borough, with an illustrious history in Woolwich helping the poorest whilst constructing vast numbers of low cost homes such as the Co-op estate in Abbey Wood, it’d be a shame to see them focus increasingly on areas of wealth.
I’m probably babbling and people will point out a thousand branches in poorer areas now.
The planning application reference is 18/2963/F
It’s a shame that they are focusing on wealthier areas but co-op prices are not really discount supermarket like and many people on low incomes prefer to shop in discounters where staff are paid next to nothing (Aldi are the exception). I think they’re food is equivalent to M&S or Sainsbury’s.
they are?
Co-op are only doing what Greggs and Iceland have been doing the last few years, ensuring that they remain on the high streets by following the money. Unfortunately there isn’t much scope for their traditional sales model given the increasing dominance of online shopping so Co-op et al try to offer a more premium experience. Co-op’s USP in this market is its ethical stance. M&S in Woolwich is a perfect example of this changing landscape, abandoning the traditional user base of reasonably priced clothes and basic foods for the more expensive ready-to-eat market along Victory Parade. Its not ideal but at least it keeps the high street alive a little longer.
I wish the CO-OP every success with their new store. As the area continues to be developed and the local population continues to grow we need to service these new developments. I think mixed retail and residential developments have been proven to work. They have a ready made customer base from the local residents. I prefer to go to the shop to buy my food shopping rather than doing this on line.
I wish the CO-OP every success with their new store.
We need more retails shops in the new developments. Co-op is still low prices and good ethics.
I think it is great ther are moving in.