Co-op and Leeds University Union (LUU) confirm the signing of a new 10 year franchise agreement, extending the successful partnership – which first started in 2019 – to 2036.
Leeds University Union was the first to bring Co-op convenience to campus, transforming the existing union supermarket and creating a new-look store to better serve university life.
Serving a diverse and international student, research and teaching population, the store has a focus on food to go, including meal deals, hot food, instore bakery, coffee and world foods, which sits alongside an extensive range of fresh and healthy produce, ready meals, pizzas, and everyday essentials – with an array of 16 self-service tills ensuring a quick and convenient service at peak times.
The benefits of Co-op membership is increasingly popular with students – and has seen a 15% jump on the campus in the last two years alone. Member price savings bring additional value, alongside a say in how Co-op is run with its heritage of campaigning on issues that matter most to the next generation and, giving young people a voice. Operated by LUU, the store has also provided employment opportunities and valuable work experience to over 350 students since 2019.
Jonathan Perry, head of business development for Co-op Franchise, said: “Leeds University Union were pioneers when they opened the first Co-op franchise store on the university campus in 2019, and it’s grown from strength to strength. We’ve witnessed the provision of quality food, ethical sourcing and value become more and more important to campus life. Our stores are set up to be more than just a shop, they are a hub locally, and by working together we’ve created an evolving proposition focussed on serving and supporting the diverse and dynamic campus community – we are delighted to extend our partnership onto 2036, and excited about the next chapter in our relationship.”
Aidan Grills, chief exec, Leeds University Union, said: “Here at Leeds University Union we’re committed to enhancing the university experience for our student members, and Co-op has proven to be a great fit with its ethical, sustainable, community and quality ethos. The whole team is thrilled to commit to the next 10 years of operating a Co-op franchise store on campus, providing excellent value through a student-centered range of products, and providing flexible on-campus jobs for our community.”
Since launching its first Franchise store at Leeds University Union, Co-op has grown to 11 Franchise stores on Campus. The most recent launches were at Warwick and Lancaster University, with a strong pipeline of launches planned for 2026, including Co-op stores opening on campus at Birmingham, Leicester and Glasgow Universities.
