Co-op serves-up new-look Isle of Grain (Kent) store
14 November 2025
14, November 2025 Isle of Grain’s Co-op re-launches with a fresh new-look following a nine-week programme of improvements, with children from St James’ Primary Academy helping to cut the ribbon and re-open the store for the community.
Isle of Grain's Co-op is one of 50 new or refurbished stores Co-op has confirmed this week it is opening during November and December, in time for Christmas – other stores to open this week included those in Aylesbury (new concept On The Go store); and also refurbishments for stores in Bebington (Wirral) and Hall Grove (Ludwick, Welwyn Garden City).
The Isle of Grain high street store – which supports 13 local jobs - has been ‘transformed’ with a brand new look and layout which includes an in-store bakery, Costa Coffee Express, hot food and new refrigeration which not only further cuts Co-op’s carbon footprint, but also enhances the store’s fresh, chilled and frozen range.
Isle of Grain’s Co-op is welcoming its members and customers back into their local store, where they will see an extended range and choice including fresh and healthy products; food-to-go and meal deals; Fairtrade goods; pizzas; flowers; ready meals, award winning wines and beers and, everyday essentials.
Parcel collection services are available through an InPost Locker and Amazon. And, an ATM provides access to cash in the community.
A back of shop extension end improved warehousing has also been carried out to enable the store to better serve the community, and self-service tills have been added for increased ease, speed and convenience, especially at busier times of the day.
Paul Hoskins, Co-op’s Area Operations Manager, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to invest in Isle of Grain. The store has been completely transformed with a fresh new look. We’re proud to be part of local community life. We have a focus on being a hub locally for the community, delivering the quality, choice, value and added services which can be enjoyed by everyone - we're here to contribute to local life and conveniently serve and support the community.”
Member price savings create additional value for Co-op members who can save more with personalised offers, deals and promotions and, lower prices on the products shoppers buy most.
Soft plastic recycling is also available in store, making it easier for shoppers to return harder to recycle materials such as crisp packets and bread bags, lids from ready meals, biscuit wrappers and, pet food pouches.
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 7m 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
Isle of Grain's Co-op is open between 6am-10pm daily.
< ends >
About Co-op
Co-op Group is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives, operating across food retail, funerals, insurance and legal services. Owned by over 6.9 million active member-owners, Co-op exists to meet their needs and champion the causes they care about. With more than 2,300 food stores, 800 funeral homes and a wholesale business supplying around 8,000 additional outlets, Co-op employs 53,000 colleagues and generates annual revenues of over £11 billion. It is a recognised leader in ethical business and community-led programmes, creating long-term value for members and communities across the UK.
Further information:
Andrew Torr
Lead Press Officer, Co-op
M: 07702505551
E: andrew.torr@coop.co.uk