Co-op has appointed former Lidl regional head of property Rachel Hargreaves as its new director of property, development and estates to drive its growth plans.
Hargreaves will focus on ensuring the convenience retailer is at the forefront of landowners, developers and agents minds as the go-to operator for new retail floor space in her new role.
The role, which will see Hargreaves reporting to group property director Heather Thomas, also includes directing and leading on new initiatives to maximise the potential of Co-op’s existing portfolio of properties.
Hargreaves previously spent more than 17 years at Lidl, having held the position of regional head of property for the past three and a half years.
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Her role at the discounter involved the implementation of its expansion strategy, including the appraising, budgeting, planning and co-ordination of the delivery of a five year plan of acquisitions, construction, asset and estate management.
Hargreaves said: “I am thrilled to join Co-op at such a key time. This is an exciting opportunity with Co-op focussed on delivering increased value for its member-owners, and well placed to target additional growth through its core business areas.”
Thomas added: “With our stores located at the heart of local community life, we are planning for the future with a focus on growing our business for our member-owners, and enhancing the value we deliver to them and their communities – whether that is acquiring new space or maximising the potential of our existing estate.
“Rachel brings a wealth of experience and joins us at an exciting time as we continue to put in place the building blocks for our strategic growth plans across our Co-op.”
