Co-op Wholesale has pledged to improve deliveries, expand its own Co-op label range and boost fundraising initiatives for partnered stores. The promises were made to Nisa retailers at the firm’s inaugural Partner Summit on 26 June. Better Retailing understands several of the wholesaler’s senior leadership team outlined the improvements to retailers in attendance.

One source, who asked not to be named, said: “What they’re looking to do is streamline the entire logistics network as they have a high number of failed deliveries where retailers aren’t ordering. They’re encouraging retailers to be realistic and assess whether they can consolidate the number of weekly deliveries.

“That would free up the logistics network. The whole ethos is that, the more efficient the network is, the more cost-effective it will become. The logistics network is probably Co-op Wholesale’s biggest cost. If they can save more money on logistics, there’s more scope to spend the savings on improving the pricing of goods.”

What other investments is Co-op Wholesale looking to make?

Another source, who described the summit as positive, added Co-op Wholesale was also looking at growing the number of Co-op own label products available to Nisa retailers, while also investing in charity initiatives to drive more footfall into stores.

Katie Secretan, Co-op Wholesale’s managing director, said: “Last week, we were thrilled to host our first Partner Summit, bringing together partners from across the network both in person and virtually.

“Partnership is about how we work together and support each other, and I’m really clear on our plan to deliver. While it is a tough market, we see real growth opportunities – and partnership is key.

“At Co-op Wholesale, we really do have the jewels of the convenience crown. Our retailers are able to maintain their independence whilst leveraging the best of Co-op, so we can succeed together and grow our partnership in a profitable way.”

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