UK: Co-op extends pop-up shop supply alongside Rapid Retail
The retailer has secured an agreement extension for the deployment of stores which typically run for one to four months.
Co-op has agreed to extend its supply partnership with Rapid Retail to maintain the provision to its Worcestershire customer base. The walk-in pop-up stores are up to 290 sq ft. and supplied fully branded and fitted out in-line with Co-op’s permanent stores.
“Our use of temporary pop-up stores is very well received in local communities. The pop-up shops also allow us to react quickly to local emergencies, and form an integral part of our planned refurbishment programme where the units enable us to continue to meet the needs of Members and customers locally by serving a wide range of everyday essentials, conveniently, while we are refurbishing and improving their local Co-op,” said Kevin Holder, Project Support Co-ordinator for Co-op.
The pop-up shops, which are typically in place for between one and four months, are used in locations where residents often rely on their local convenience store. They can be installed by Rapid Retail outside the retailer’s stores as they close temporarily as part of planned works to refurbish and improve stores.
“We’re delighted to be working with Co-op and other major retailers, to support them in capitalizing on the benefits of pop up shops for business continuity – minimizing any negative impact of a refurbishment, while maximizing revenue opportunities. Every unit we supply is self-contained and highly secure. When they are no-longer needed, they can simply be moved to another location, making it a very cost effective and efficient model,” explained Nick Daffern, Managing Director of Rapid Retail.
The temporary stores can also be deployed quickly and have been used by the retailer to support flood affected communities, such as in Hebden Bridge which was hit by adverse weather on Boxing Day 2015. Co-op also utilized a pop-up shop when its Honley store, in West Yorkshire, was damaged by fire. Located opposite an assisted living facility for older people, the pop-up unit ensured a vital service was maintained in the community.
