Pop-up shop provider secures extended Co-op contract

16 February 2022

Pop-up shop provider, Rapid Retail, has secured a supply agreement extension with Co-op, supporting the convenience retailer’s commitment to serve and support communities conveniently when a store closes temporarily.

The walk-in pop-up stores – which are up to 290 sq ft - are supplied fully branded and fitted out in-line with Co-op’s permanent stores. They can be installed by Worcestershire-based Rapid Retail outside the retailer’s stores should they be closing temporarily as part of planned works to refurbish and improve stories.

The pop-up shops, which are typically in place for between one and four months, are used in locations where residents often rely on their local community-based convenience store.

The temporary stores can also be deployed quickly and have been used by the retailer to support flood affected communities; such as in Hebden Bridge which was hit by adverse weather on Boxing Day 2015. Co-op also utilised a pop-up shop when its Honley store, in West Yorkshire, was damaged by fire. Located opposite an assisted living facility for older people, the pop-up unit ensured a vital service was maintained in the community while the store temporarily closed.

Kevin Holder, Project Support Co-ordinator, Co-op, explained: “Our use of temporary pop-up stores is very well received in local communities. The pop-up shops also allow us to react quickly to local emergencies, and form an integral part of our planned refurbishment programme. The units enable us to continue to meet the needs of Members and customers locally - when we temporaily close a store - by offering a wide range of everyday essentials, conveniently, while we refurbish and enhance the community's Co-op.”

Nick Daffern, MD of Rapid Retail, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Co-op, to support them in capitalising on the community benefits of pop up shops for business continuity. Every unit we supply is self-contained and highly secure. When they are no-longer needed, they can simply be moved to another location, making it a very efficient model - they are a tried and tested solution.”

Further information:
Andrew Torr
Co-op Press Office
M: 07702505551
E: andrew.torr@coop.co.uk