It’s a co-op … but not as we know it

Clydebank mutual retailer joins forces with symbol group to launch c-store

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A new convenience store, the result of a collaboration between Clydebank Co-operative Society and Keystore operator, wholesaler JW Filshill, has opened in Glasgow’s Knightswood.
The Baldwin Avenue unit, which is owned by the Clydebank Co-op and traded under lease as a Spar for 20 years, now has a joint Co-operative/KeyStore fascia.
Instead of sourcing stock through the Co-operative group, the new store will be supplied by Filshill.
“This is a significant departure from our current supply line of the Co-operative Group,” said Robert Sider, chief executive of Clydebank Co-operative Society, “However, Keystore offers a wider product range that is much more suited to convenience trading and because we can also source more Scottish products via Filshill, it’s a better fit for the local area.”
Filshill’s MD, Simon Hannah, added: “We applaud Robert Sider and his colleagues for adopting such a forward-thinking approach and share their belief that our jointly branded store will breathe new life into the Scottish convenience sector.”

The Clydebank Co-operative Society has joined with JW Filshill’s symbol group, Keystore, to open a 1,200 sq ft c-store in Knightswood. The store offers an order-and-collection service as well as some deliveries.
The Clydebank Co-operative Society has joined with JW Filshill’s symbol group, Keystore, to open a 1,200 sq ft c-store in Knightswood. The store offers an order-and-collection service as well as some deliveries.

The tie-up, which has been three years in the planning, will see the 1,200 sq ft licensed store trading from 7am to 10pm seven days a week. Services include National Lottery, Paypoint and a Clydesdale Bank ATM.
Initiatives launched since the store opened last month include a collection service which allows customers to order during the day then pick it up their shopping in the afternoon or evening.
The store also offers a small-scale “distress” delivery service. Customers on Baldwin Avenue itself who can’t get out to the store can order up to three items, and staff will deliver them.
“We’ve done our homework and know that there are a lot of mums with young children and elderly people living in the area,” said Sider. “We’re looking at essential items like nappies and baby products, milk, tea and pet food. If there’s a demand we’ll look at extending it.”