Co-op has launched a brand-new ‘on-the-go’ store format aimed at busy shoppers looking for fast, fresh food, marking a first for a UK supermarket chain.

It is understood that the new micro stores will be a quarter of the size of a typical Co-op (600-1,000 sq ft) and are located in high footfall areas, with the first opening in Solihull this week and 15 more planned over the coming months.

Photo: Inside Co-op’s new food-to-go format

The convenience retailer has said it aims to open hundreds more over the next few years through new sites, refits and implants.

Open from 7am to 7pm, the stores focus on food-for-now missions like breakfast, lunch and dinner-to-go, with unique product innovation and a new serve-over hot food counter, which marks another first for Co-op.

Alongside the store openings, the retailer has launched a new range that includes everything from bircher pots and freshly made toasties to hot baguettes and protein pots. Co-op’s pizzas will also be available cooked in-store and later delivered to customers’ doors as part of a new “dark trading” evening model.

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Co-op Food managing director Matt Hood said: “We are always looking at new ways to deliver convenience to our members and customers and these new stores are a perfect example of us using our expertise to refine our ‘on the go’ offer so it is focused on giving shoppers exactly what they need, when they need it.

“It’s a brand-new concept, which we believe there is a big demand for and which we can meet with delicious products, quick service, good value and spot on locations. I’m excited to see this evolution of Co-op stores, join our traditional convenience stores across the UK.“

The micro format is set to put Co-op head-to-head with high street food-to-go chains such as Greggs, Pret and Leon, while complementing its traditional convenience estate.

It builds upon the retailer’s newly launched partnerships with delivery platforms such as its new million-pound rapid delivery grocery app ‘Peckish’ which it launched in January.

Earlier this week, Co-op also revealed it had teamed up with Deliveroo to provide a white label solution for grocers and retailers across the UK.