Convenience chain Co-op has launched the fifth edition of its incubator programme, The Apiary, which seeks out smaller-scale businesses to work with the retailer towards a listing on its shelves.

Applications are now open for food and drink businesses this year, with 38 suppliers securing retail listings with Co-op since the scheme’s launch in 2022.

Co-op will offer personalised mentoring, targeted masterclasses given by experts and a supplier peer network. The applications for the programme will close on 22 February.

Katie Schofield, Co-op buying manager for the Apiary, said: “We’re working to help agile new producers with the potential to disrupt and challenge the market to grow and develop to their next level, and so it’s incredibly exciting to begin the search for the next wave of suppliers to join our Incubator programme.

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“We are focused on making it easier for early-stage businesses to become retail-ready and thrive. We are looking for exciting and emerging new products from purpose-led suppliers with a real point of difference that can enthuse, excite and resonate with our customers.”

Bakery business H.M. Pasties recently gained a listing through the programme, which marks its first-ever supermarket contract, and was stocked on shelves of nearly 80 Co-op stores across Greater Manchester.

Other suppliers which were selected include no/low brewery Only With Love, handcrafted small-batch gin brand Still Sisters, Chu Lo Drinks and Wild Thingz Organic Sweets.

As part of this year’s cycle, the retailer is seeking products such as healthier savoury snacks, energy and high-protein foods, HFSS-compliant chocolate alternatives, fruit-based snacks, functional drinks and confectionery and instant and ambient meal pots and pouches.