The Co-op Group has today Monday 31st March, re-affirmed its commitment to the independent retail sector through the launch of Co-op Wholesale, with its fascia brand being fully retained as part of the suite of services available to Co-op’s independent partners.Drawing on over 160 years of wholesale heritage, this move re-enforces the Co-op Group’s commitment to drive increased value for independent retailers, whilst fuelling expansion ambitions into broader corporate business to business markets, and vision to deliver the best of Co-op to its trusted partners.
Marking a pivotal milestone in the growth trajectory for the business, Katie Secretan, has also been appointed as the Managing Director for Co-op Wholesale.
Joining Nisa in January 2024, previously holding the position of Retail & Sales Director, Katie has been instrumental in unlocking growth opportunities for both current retailers and prospects, as well as new corporate partnerships and building the foundations to support the businesses ambitious growth targets.
Jerome Saint-Marc, managing director for B2B and growth at Co-op, said: “Our commitment to all our partners remains as strong as ever, to ensure their businesses drive profitable growth now and for generations to come. Our move to Co-op Wholesale is a strategic step forward for us and one we’re immensely proud of. It’ll allow us to deliver expansive growth and operational excellence for our B2B partners, bringing them the products they need, at the right price, when they need them.
“With a new leadership team, strategy and vision, we have one clear goal and that is to drive growth by bringing the best of Co-op to our partners. And following the expertise, drive and passion we’ve witnessed from Katie in the last year, I am delighted that she will be stepping into her role to power the business forward.”
Katie Secretan, managing director for Co-op Wholesale, said: “We’re clear that this is more than just a supply relationship. Co-op Wholesale is backed by a business built on purpose and we’ll use our platforms to champion what matters most to our diverse partner base, as we know that we can make greater impact when we work together.
“Under Co-op Wholesale, we’re already making significant growth opportunities through corporate accounts as well as traditional retailers, and we’re looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together.”
Despite the current economic and social headwinds facing the retail sector, the Co-op Group remains committed to and excited by the longer-term prospects for the convenience market and the vital role played by independent retailers within the sector.
With significant buying power, industry-leading quality own-brand products, and a supply chain built for convenience, Co-op Wholesale can deliver an unrivalled proposition that will power growth for both independent retailers and corporate partners alike, in today’s fiercely competitive market.
Co-op prides itself on delivering best in class products and its own brand range remains a key differentiator for its B2B proposition. The brand will continue to innovate in its range, to help its partners stand out from competition and drive greater loyalty with shoppers. Working in parallel with insight-driven recommendations and category leadership for key convenience missions, this partnership will optimise every store location for maximum impact to drive sustainable growth.
The adaptable model from Co-op Wholesale can help any partner scale and drive sustainable growth, with the flexibility to operate their store to grow, their way.
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