New Co-op in Stockbridge opened today after £740,000 investment

A new Co-op food store has opened in Stockbridge today as part of the Raeburn Place development.

The new Co-op on Raeburn Place, Stockbridge opened today.

The food store opening follows a £740,000 investment in the area and has created 14 jobs for local people.

As well as essential necessities, the store - which will run off 100% renewable electricity - includes Amazon lockers, Costa Coffee, a bakery, self service check-outs and hot foods.

David Hobday, Co-op Store Manager, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to make such a significant investment in Stockbridge and look forward to serving our community.

The store will offer essential necessities as well as additional services including Amazon Lockers and Costa Coffee.

"The store has a great look and feel, and we have worked to develop the range, choice, products and services locally that will create a really compelling offer and enable the store team to serve the community quickly, easily, safely and, conveniently.”

In honour of its opening, Co-op is providing food donations and hampers to two local care homes including an Amazon Fire tablet for each home so residents can stay connected with their family over Christmas. Two further tablets will go to a local learning centre.

The store has also partnered with Edinburgh’s Refugee Community Kitchen to put unsold food to good use. The food store will be donating £300 worth of stock to the charity along with 30 warm branded Refugee Community Kitchen jackets for volunteers to wear this winter and £750 to cover maintenance for volunteers who use bicycles to deliver food around the city.

Stockbridge residents are also invited to submit suggestions in store to improve the community as part of the retailer’s Make A Wish scheme – with £5,000 going towards the winning entry.

The new Co-op will create 14 jobs for local people.

A message from the Editor:Thank you for reading this article. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by Coronavirus impacts our advertisers.

If you haven't already, please consider supporting our trusted, fact-checked journalism by taking out a digital subscription.