Co-op has become the second major retail chain in the UK to partner directly with Just Eat Takeaway on online home delivery services, hoping to provide further convenience to its customers.
The announcement on Friday will help expand Co-op’s reach and footprint as it looks to compete more strongly with its rivals. ASDA already has combined forces with the Dutch multinational leader, as has wholesale Booker (which has a tie-up with Tesco).
Co-op expects to have delivery ready to go in 50 stores in the next month or so, with a massive rollout to more than 1,000 stores set by the spring.
The arrangement will mean Co-op customers not keen on travelling to physical locations will be able to get orders delivered in less than 30 minutes in most cases. However, the fact that Co-op’s network of stores – 2,500 across the UK – is expansive means services should be rapid.
“Co-op stores are well placed in local communities to provide quick, easy and convenient home deliveries – whether a full shop or last-minute top-ups,” Chris Conway, e-commerce director for Co-op, said.
But of course, the goal of the partnership and other deals, is to provide much more. “We are committed to exploring new and innovative ways to increase access to our products and services and, with our members and customers leading busy lives, ease, speed and convenience is a cornerstone of our approach,” he said. “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Just Eat, a move which will enable Co-op to ‘deliver’ further flexible options online with increased choice and availability in our communities, however and whenever our customers choose to shop with us.”
They will enjoy a range of menu options to select from, including Co-op’s ethically sourced own brand items. From fruits and vegetables to essential cupboard items, Just Eat will be able to bring their favorite foods and meals staples to their doorsteps. The service has been a worldwide hit, with more than 30,000 supermarket and convenience stores using Just Eat. That also includes big industry players such as Ahold, Carrefour and Spar.
With thousands of products available to choose from, customers can order anything from ready meals to store cupboard essentials directly picked from local Co-op stores. They will also have access to offers and promotions from popular brands as well as Co-op’s award-winning, ethically sourced quality own brand. Just Eat will then take care of the delivery, through its growing network of couriers across the UK.
“The partnership will bring our customers access to a wide range of fantastic Co-op products delivered to their home within minutes,” Amy Heather, strategic accounts director, Just Eat UK, said. “We know that Co-op will be a popular addition for our customers.”
