Co-op launches pilot for biggest ever business transformation programme
31 July 2019
Co-op has announced details of the first stage of its Retail Business Transformation programme (RBT), the biggest transformation programme the convenience store retailer has ever undertaken.
The system pilot launched this week with suppliers will support Co-op’s ambitious growth strategy, introducing new technology to improve ranging, stock holding, availability, and more accurate forecasting information. A new cloud based Supplier Collaboration portal – Co-op Connect – is also in place.
The systems are being tested in 24 stores, across five categories with 15 suppliers and c300 skus. The categories being trialled are soft drinks, salads, paper, pizza and beer, working with suppliers including Coca Cola, Heineken, Agrial Fresh Produce Ltd, Bakkavor Pizza & Bread, and Kimberly Clark*.
Michael Fletcher, Chief Commercial Officer at Co-op, said: “The RBT programme is an integral part of Co-op’s on-going success, as we look to ensure that the technology we are using will future proof the business for many years to come. This pilot will allow us to work with suppliers to ensure that it is working perfectly before we roll it out elsewhere, and we are already getting positive feedback that the new portal is faster and easier to navigate.
“Investing in new technology will allow us to grow the business, helping to deliver a stronger Co-op that will result in stronger communities.”
Ends
- Full list of supplier and categories:
| Company | Category |
|---|---|
| Coca-Cola European Partners | Soft Drinks |
| Heineken UK | Beer |
| Florette (Part of Agrial Fresh Produce Ltd) | Salad |
| Agrial Wigan (Part of Agrial Fresh Produce Ltd) | Salad |
| Evesham Vale Growers | Salad |
| G's Fresh | Salad |
| Keelings International | Salad |
| Minor Weir & Willis | Salad |
| PDM | Salad |
| Bakkavor Pizza & Bread | Pizza |
| Stateside Foods | Pizza |
| Essity | Paper |
| Kimberly Clark | Paper |
| WEPA UK | Paper |
| Leicester Tissue | Paper |
For any further information, please contact:
Craig Brownsell
Press & Media Manager
0161 692 4283 / 07843 648467
craig.brownsell@coop.co.uk