A new Co-op store has been served up for students at Oxford Brookes University, supporting 21 full and part-time retail jobs.
Located in the Colonnade building on the Gipsy Lane site of the Headington Campus, the new Co-op includes an in store bakery, hot food and coffee, alongside a focus on fresh, healthy produce, ready meals and pizzas, free-from, gluten-free and vegan products, Fairtrade, food-to-go and, everyday essentials.
The increased floor space and improved lay-out for the new store also includes 14 self-scan check-outs, with contactless card payment limits increased to £45 - making it easier, quicker and safer to shop.
Earlier this week 30 positive cases of coronavirus were reported at Oxford Brookes following student parties.
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Open from 7am to 10pm, seven days a week, the store can be used not only by students and staff but local shoppers too.
Students who are TOTUM cardholders - the new name for NUS extra – can pocket a 10% discount off groceries at the Co-op.
The store is operated by the hospitality and catering company, Gather & Gather, and it is Gather & Gather’s first retail shop as a Co-op franchisee.
“Gather & Gather secured a 10-year contract to provide catering services within Oxford Brookes University’s three Oxford campuses in 2019, with operations starting earlier this year.
Store manager Jo Smith
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Store manager Jo Smith said: “The store has a great look, feel and range and we are really looking forward to serving the community – we have worked hard to create a really compelling convenience offer with everything from food-on-the-go through to fresh produce and evening meals which can be purchased quickly, easily and safely.
“Co-op is committed to connecting communities and making a difference locally, and our aim is to operate at the heart of local life.
“That is why we also want customers to know that they can become a Member of their Co-op, and that they can make a difference to local causes every time they swipe their Membership card when buying own branded products.”
Phillipa Fletcher, Head of Commercial Services at Oxford Brookes University, said: “Oxford Brookes is committed to providing high-quality, sustainable and value-for-money catering across each of its campuses.
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“We look forward to working with Gather & Gather on a range of exciting new food options for our students, staff and visitors to the University.”
The retailer’s Food Share scheme works to minimise food waste and make a difference locally, supporting local not-for-profit organisations who work to tackle food insecurity and share food with those in need in the community.
The Co-op’s Community Shopping Card makes it easier for those self-isolating or who have been instructed to stay at home to shop and pay for their essentials - cards can be purchased or topped-up by calling 0800 029 4592, enabling friends, families, neighbours or volunteers to shop on their behalf in store.
Co-op is owned by around 4.6 million active members, and alongside food, it operates: Co-op Funeralcare, Insurance, Health and Legal Services.
