Co-op foodstore in Elmswell reopens after big refurbishment as Co-op in Thurston raided

The East of England Co-op Food store in Elmswell (pictured above) has now re-opened after being refurbished as part of a £5 million investment by the retailer, including upgrades to the sustainability and food-to-go offering of its stores.

The work, which form part of the East of England Co-op’s portfolio reshape, improve the stores’ member and customer experience alongside their environmental impact with new eco-friendly refrigeration units.

The Elmswell store, on Ashfield Road, sees several other benefits including a new “to-go” food range, a brand-new serve behind in-store bakery, iSqueeze freshly squeezed orange juice, Tango Ice Blast and Fwip ice cream.

This forms part of the retailer’s wider refurbishment of a total of 12 stores across the East of England which began in August 2024.

Andy Rigby, the chief operating officer at the East of England Co-op, said: “This investment in Elmswell has allowed us to enhance our member and customer journey through upgrades to store sustainability and improved shopping experience.

“This is part of our commitment to continue supporting the local communities these stores serve by providing quality products and exceptional customer service.

“We want to do everything we can to minimise our environmental impact, which is why we’re placing a large emphasis on the stores’ sustainability throughout these refurbishments. These are crucial upgrades as we continue to invest in and reshape our wider portfolio.”

Meanwhile, a police investigation has been launched after the Co-op, on Station Hill, in Thurston was burgled, just after 3am yesterday, Tuesday, November 5.

Police said the raiders broke the shop window with a crowbar to gain entry with cigarettes and tobacco stolen.