Co-op Group has ambitious plans for partner growth
THE Co-op Group has relaunched Nisa as Co-op Wholesale in a move it says shows its commitment to the independent retail sector while targeting other growth opportunities.
The Nisa fascia brand will be retained as part of the suite of services available to Co-op’s independent retailers, with the group saying it was determined to drive increased value for store owners.
But the launch is also said to be aimed at enabling expansion ambitions into broader corporate business to business markets and ensuring Co-op provides the best service to its partners.
Katie Secretan has been appointed as managing director of Co-op Wholesale, having previously joined Nisa in January 2024 as retail & sales director.
Jerome Saint-Marc, managing director for B2B and growth at Co-op, said: “Our commitment to all our partners remains as strong as ever, to ensure their businesses drive profitable growth now and for generations to come.
“Our move to Co-op Wholesale is a strategic step forward for us and one we’re immensely proud of.
“It will allow us to deliver expansive growth and operational excellence for our B2B partners, bringing them the products they need, at the right price, when they need them.
“With a new leadership team, strategy and vision, we have one clear goal and that is to drive growth by bringing the best of Co-op to our partners.
“And following the expertise, drive and passion we’ve witnessed from Katie in the last year, I am delighted that she will be stepping into her role to power the business forward.”
Despite the current economic and social headwinds facing the retail sector, the Co-op Group said it remained committed to and excited by the longer-term prospects for the convenience market and the vital role played by independent retailers within the sector.
Co-op Wholesale believes its significant buying power, industry-leading quality own-brand products and supply chain built for convenience means it can deliver an unrivalled proposition that will power growth for both independent retailers and corporate B2B partners.
The brand said it would continue to innovate its range in order to help its partners stand out from competition and drive greater loyalty with shoppers.
The new outfit also claimed its adaptable model, coupled with insight driven recommendations, could help any partner scale and drive sustainable growth, with the flexibility to operate their store to grow their way.
Secretan added: “We’re clear that this is more than just a supply relationship. Co-op Wholesale is backed by a business built on purpose and we’ll use our platforms to champion what matters most to our diverse partner base, as we know that we can make greater impact when we work together.
“Under Co-op Wholesale, we’re already making significant growth opportunities through corporate accounts as well as traditional retailers, and we’re looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together.”
