Supermarket group Co-op has re-launched two of its convenience stores following seven-week refurbishment programmes designed to “transform” the offering for local communities.

The retailer has unveiled a refreshed store in Kimberworth, Rotherham, which now supports 18 jobs following the creation of six new roles.

While In Dagenham, its Porters Avenue store also reopened with a renewed look, continuing to support 13 local jobs.

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Both stores have been modernised with new refrigeration units to expand chilled, fresh and frozen ranges while also reducing energy use, part of the Co-op’s commitment to lowering its carbon footprint.

Kimberworth Co-op re-launches with fresh new-look. Credit: United National Photographers.

Stephen Howe, store manager at Kimberworth, said the whole team is “delighted to have had the opportunity to invest” in the store.

”It’s been transformed with a fresh new look and layout, it looks fantastic, like a brand new store,”he said.

”With a focus on delivering the quality, choice, value and added services which can be enjoyed by everyone, we’re proud to be part of the community. we’re here to contribute to local life and conveniently serve and support Kimberworth.”

Alongside core grocery lines, the two shops now place a strong emphasis on food-to-go, meal deals, Fairtrade products, ready meals, pizzas, flowers, beers, wines and everyday essentials.

Added services form a key part of the investmen and sites now host Costa Coffee Express machines and in-store bakeries.

Kimberworth also offers DPD and Amazon parcel collections, while Porters Avenue provides Amazon services with an InPost locker set to follow. PayPoint has also been introduced at the Dagenham site.

Co Op Food, Porters Avenue, Dagenham.

Shoppers can also access rapid grocery delivery through Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats, with items picked in-store for quick fulfilment.

Both stores will also promote value for shoppers through Co-op’s membership scheme, which offers exclusive pricing on key lines and personalised member offers.