Co-op Wholesale is investing in new product ranges, food-to-go equipment and digital merchandising across Nisa stores to attract younger shoppers.

The wholesaler is strengthening its convenience offering to meet growing demand from Gen Z consumers, who are increasingly turning to local stores for impulse purchases and trending products.

Speaking at the Talysis Convenience Connected 2026 event, Co-op Wholesale trading director Robbie Moore said younger shoppers were changing the way convenience stores operate, with platforms such as TikTok playing a growing role in influencing purchasing decisions.

Moore highlighted how Gen Z consumers are increasingly seeking adventurous flavours, authentic products and more flexible shopping experiences rather than completing their grocery shopping in one visit.

The business is responding by expanding its food-to-go range to include more innovative products, such as matcha cookies, while exploring how retailers can better cater to demand for internationally inspired flavours.

Co-op Wholesale is also looking to leverage the wider Co-op business to help independent retailers access improved food-to-go equipment, including ovens and hot food solutions.

The investment is intended to help Nisa retailers expand their fresh food and bakery offerings without facing the full costs of developing their own infrastructure.

Alongside product development, the wholesaler is enhancing its in-store digital screens to highlight promotional activity, new product launches and emerging consumer trends.

Moore said retailers needed to respond more quickly to products gaining popularity on social media, ensuring trending items were available in stores while consumer interest remained high.

The wholesaler is also incorporating social media trends into its product selection process to help independent retailers identify new opportunities and respond to changing shopper preferences.

It forms part of Co-op Wholesale’s wider transformation of Nisa, which has included the introduction of a refreshed store fascia, improved commercial terms and greater access to Co-op own-brand products.

Earlier this year, the group launched a new Nisa proposition that removed standard membership fees, delivery charges and surcharges for retailers adopting the updated commercial model.

Participating retailers can also access more than 2,400 Co-op own-brand products, with a greater focus on food-to-go, meal solutions and everyday essentials.

Co-op Wholesale has been accelerating the rollout of its refreshed Nisa format, with 25 stores adopting the new branding during the first half of 2026 and a target of 100 stores by the end of the year.

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