Rapid Retail extends Co-op contract

The pop-up shop provider will continue supporting when stores close temporarily

The Co-op‘s commitment to serve and support the communities it operates in has seen it partner with Rapid Retail to ensure that when a store needs to be closed for a period, customers don’t go without.

Worcester-based Rapid Retail provides 290 square foot shops, complete with Co-op branding and fittings, outside stores that need to be closed for refurbishment. Needing to operate sometimes for up to four months, these stores have proved important for communities dependent on their local shop.

In more exceptional circumstances such as fire damage or large-scale floods (such as in Hebden Bridge on Boxing Day 2015) the speed with which a pop-up can be constructed means that locals need not lose access to a vital service. Kevin Holder, project support coordinator for the Co-op, agreed the pop-ups serve an important purpose.

He said: “The units enable us to continue to meet the needs of members and customers locally – when we temporarily close a store – by offering a wide range of everyday essentials, conveniently, while we refurbish and enhance the community’s Co-op.”

The extension of the contract has been met with positivity from Rapid Retail with MD Nick Daffern pleased to comment. “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… they are a tried and tested solution,” he said.