Co-op introducing major change to 2,400 stores by 2026

The new labels will be coming to all Co-op branches in the next year (Picture: Alamy Stock Photo)

Co-op is the first major UK retailer to roll out electronic shelf labels to all of its shops.

The brand says the move will ‘improve customer experience’ and it’s hoped 1,500 shops will have the electric labels by the end of the year.

It’s hoped all of the Co-op’s 2,400 convenience stores will have the electronic labels by the end of 2026.

Although Asda, Waitrose, Lidl and other UK supermarkets have trialled these electronic labels already, Co-op is the first to commit to putting the technology in every one of its branches.

The retailer is working with French retail tech company VusionGroup to replace their paper labels, aiming to convert about 40 branches a week to the new labels.

VusionGroup already works with a number of UK retailers including Morrisons, and is working with Walmart to bring its tech to 4,600 shops in the US.

Co-op shelves were left empty after a cyber attack – but the paper labels could soon be replaced with electronic ones (Picture: Danny Lawson/PA Wire)

Steven Logue, head of operations at Co-op, said: ‘With convenience at the heart of everything we do, Co-op is committed to continually exploring innovative technology that can improve how we operate.

‘The electronic labels have the potential to enhance product information and transparency, avoid paper waste, and make everyday tasks like picking online orders easier – improving ways of working, supporting our growth ambitions, and enhancing the shopping experience for our members and customers.’

Co-op as well as M&S have been targeted by a cyber attack recently, leaving shelves bare and losing customer information, but it’s understood the computer systems used to run the electronic labels were not impacted.

What are the benefits of electric shelf labels?

The new electronic label system links the shop floor with inventory management systems. They allow staff to quickly update promotions, as well as display important product information like allergens and country of origin.

In future, the electronic labels will be able to ‘flash’ to show staff which items need to be stocked – and could also be used to help Co-op staff fulfil on-demand orders.

The retailer says the electronic labels will also cut paper waste.

Roy Hargan, CEO of VusionGroup UK and Ireland, said: ‘We are immensely proud of this strategic partnership. Co-op’s values align closely with our own, and this collaboration exemplifies how technology can foster sustainability and improve the in-store experience of customers and colleagues.

‘Co-op’s rollout demonstrates its ongoing commitment to invest in physical stores which play a valuable role on UK high streets, making a positive impact on the communities it serves whilst enabling greater agility to react quicker to ever-changing market dynamics and customer needs.’

Where are they being rolled out?

Right now, there are 340 Co-op branches which already have the electronic shelf labels.

There isn’t a full list of every branch which has already been updated with the electronic labels, but customers won’t have to wait too long until their local branch gets the upgrade.

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