Co-op Group is launching two new franchise stores at university campuses in Birmingham and Glasgow in partnership with Russell Group.
It aims to “enhance grocery convenience on campus” through quality, range and value, designed to cater to the needs of student, research and teacher populations, according to the Co-op.
The stores, located at the University of Glasgow and University of Birmingham, will also have an array of self-service till points designed to quickly serve students during high-foot-traffic times of the day, it added.
Co-op also has stores located at other Russell Group university campuses, including Leeds, Newcastle and Warwick – the latter being Co-op’s largest franchise store on a campus.
The new stores at the universities in Glasgow and Birmingham will take the total number of Co-op stores on campuses to 14.
It comes as Co-op revealed earlier this week that it is expected to grow its franchise estate to more than 100 during 2026. Co-op franchise stores grew by 16% to 65 locations by the end of last year.
“We’re delighted to confirm our latest franchise partnerships and to be working with the universities of Birmingham and Glasgow,” said Co-op head of franchise development Jonathan Perry.
“These stores are designed to become genuine campus hubs, offering quality products, great value with a proposition tailored to the pace and needs of university life.
“Whether people are studying, living, working or visiting, Co‑op is focused on bringing the benefits of Co-op membership to more locations, and serving and supporting diverse and dynamic campus communities.”
University of Birmingham head of retail and brands Peter Kelland said: “We’re really looking forward to opening the new Co‑op on campus, giving students easy access to affordable, high‑quality food in a space designed around university life. Co‑op’s strong commitment to sustainability and community aligns closely with our values, and I am confident it will exceed both the students’ and staff’s expectations.”
University of Glasgow executive director of commercial services Ronnie Webster said: “We are always looking to improve our campus services, to give students and staff the best experience of university life.
“Having a Co-op will give everyone across our community the convenience to grab food, drink and household essentials close to where they work and study.”
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