Central Co-op has ploughed £2.2 million into regenerating one of its biggest shops.
The Wildwood store, in Stafford, was chosen as one of four from across England to undergo ‘significant transformations’ bringing enhanced features and a renewed commitment to sustainability and community.
The first phase of work saw the store right sized to allow a sub-let unit to be created for dance school Let’s Dance with Nicole, while the remainder of the project revamped both inside and out of the shop for a more modern look and better customer experience.
A coffee shop, laundrette, free water station, customer toilet, bike repair station, EV charging ports and a free bookable community room are among the facilities added.
Meanwhile, a new ‘Wildwoof’ pets’ corner has features such as a pet pick and mix refill station and sells treats including doggy ice cream and popcorn as well as branded favourites.
Customers can also enjoy a revamped food-to-go area, updated fresh and local produce displays, additional self-checkouts, a section for local gins, and a community noticeboard.
A solar car port is due to be installed during the early part of this year.
Simon Smith, Head of Format Development Projects and Facilities at Central Co-op, said: “These upgrades are about more than just modernising our stores, they reflect our ongoing commitment to delivering the best shopping experience for our members and customers while strengthening our connection to the local communities we serve.”
Central Co-op, based in Lichfield, operates in 422 locations, including 37 in Staffordshire.
It has been heavily investing in its stores in recent years with 23 upgraded in 2023 and 24, including Wildwood, in 2024.
Children from neighbouring Barnfields Primary School cut the ribbon to open the new-look store.
