The Co-op Group is rebranding its Nisa wholesale division as Co-op Wholesale, in a bid to re-affirm its commitment to the independent retail sector.

Nisa branding on stores will remain in place. 

The Co-op said that through its “significant buying power, industry-leading quality own-brand products, and a supply chain built for convenience” Co-op Wholesale can “deliver an unrivalled proposition that will power growth for both independent retailers and corporate partners alike, in today’s fiercely competitive market”. 

As part of the launch, Nisa retail and sales director Katie Secretan has been appointed managing director for the new wholesale arm. She joined Nisa in January 2024.

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Secretan said: “We’re clear that this is more than just a supply relationship. Co-op Wholesale is backed by a business built on purpose and we’ll use our platforms to champion what matters most to our diverse partner base, as we know that we can make greater impact when we work together.

“Under Co-op Wholesale, we’re already making significant growth opportunities through corporate accounts as well as traditional retailers, and we’re looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together.”

Co-op managing director for B2B and growth Jerome Saint-Marc described the change to Co-op Wholesale as a “strategic step forward” for the business: “It’ll allow us to deliver expansive growth and operational excellence for our B2B partners, bringing them the products they need, at the right price, when they need them.”

He added: “With a new leadership team, strategy and vision, we have one clear goal and that is to drive growth by bringing the best of Co-op to our partners. And following the expertise, drive and passion we’ve witnessed from Katie in the last year, I am delighted that she will be stepping into her role to power the business forward.”