TWO new supermarkets and a transformed store are opening in Worcestershire in just a two week period, following an investment of more than £2 million by Co-op.

The Co-op is launching a new supermarket in Station Road, Honeybourne near Evesham today, after a £650,000 investment. The store includes an in-store bakery and a Costa coffee dispenser.

The launch follows the opening of the new Co-op store in Barker Street, Worcester - a development Co-op says will bring to life surplus space in the grounds of the Goodrest Tavern and aims to create “a local hub” and become an “asset for the local community”.

That store was opened with the help of youngsters from St Barnabas Primary School.

Meanwhile, tomorrow, the Co-op’s 8,500 sq.ft. store re-opens in Pershore’s Racecourse Road following a £1.1m makeover to transform the store.

Jon Bottomley, area manager for the Co-op’s convenience stores, said: “We have had a great response, and are delighted to have had the opportunity to carry out such a significant investment in and around Worcester – colleagues are really looking forward to welcoming members and customers into their new Co-op stores.

“We are proud to be part of the community, and our ambition is to ensure that all of our stores become a local hub, a real asset for the local community.”

Guy Wimhurst, Co-op’s regional manager, added: “As a community retailer the Co-op is moving forward with a clear purpose and momentum.

“We are investing in our people, stores, products, prices and communities – our ambition is for our stores to be at the heart of local life, bringing communities together and offering great quality products when and where shoppers need them.

“We also want our customers to know that they can become a member of their Co-op.

“Our members make a difference locally, simply by swiping their membership card when they shop.”