The first Co-op store to launch as part of a new franchise agreement with 'EG On The Move' has opened. 

The Doncaster store is one of seven across the UK to launch as part of the initial trial with EG On The Move. The other six will be located across the country, including in Sussex, Buckinghamshire and Scotland. 

EG On The Move Ltd was part of EG Group but is now a subsidiary of EG Retail Services. The company has an 'extensive network' of stores that provide products and services including fuel, foodservice, grocery and merchandise.

CEO of EG On The Move, Zuber Issa said: “EG On The Move is an acknowledged petrol forecourt and convenience retail destination operator, and we are delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate with Co-op to roll out their new convenience store formats.

"Following on from this seven store trial, we look forward to working with Co-op to consider other locations across the network. 

"Co-op is a well-established convenience operator, respected in the market and a recognised consumer brand, and this partnership not only promises to enhance our convenience store offer but it will also ensure our customers have access to exceptional fuel retail services including EV charging, a wide choice of essential and premium grocery and merchandise along with an enjoyable foodservice experience.”

The new forecourt and store include electric vehicle charging; an ATM providing free access to cash, a Starbucks self-serving coffee machine; Paypoint, an in-store bakery and hot food. 

The store will also stock everyday essentials including food-to-go, chilled beers and ready meals. The online home delivery of groceries via Deliveroo will be introduced shortly after launch.

Store Manager Joshua Kershaw, said: “The whole team is delighted to launch the newest Co-op store. It looks fantastic, and it is very exciting to be opening the brand new franchise store which combines Co-op’s convenience expertise with EG On The Move’s petrol forecourt business."

Director of Partnership Development, Co-op, Martin Rogers said: "We are delighted to be working with EG On The Move, our second forecourt partner, helping us achieve our ambitious plans in this exciting sector."

Co-op is set to trial seven similar stores across the country

Managing Director B2B and Growth, Jerome Saint-Marc said: "This is part of our broader expansion in the petrol forecourt market. It follows our strategy to pivot our growth in this market through franchise, growing our presence and enabling us to best utilise our expertise and offer in convenience."

Co-op currently operates almost 2,400 food stores and provides products to over 6,000 other stores including those run by independent co-operative societies and through its wholesale business, Nisa Retail Limited.