Convenience retailer, Co-op is claiming a first with its new 'micro-supermarket', to cater for changing shopping habits.

It has introduced its first ever 24 hour self-serve, cashless micro-market at the head office for British manufacturer Numatic, the home of the iconic Henry and Hetty vacuum cleaners.

Based at the Numatic main site in Somerset, 1,000 staff will get access Co-op own brand products such as food-to-go meal deals, breakfast items, milk, bread and ready meals, as well drinks on the go from its ethically sourced own brand hot drinks machine, Ever Ground.

Martin Rogers, Head of New Channels, at Co-op said: "The pandemic has changed the way in which people shop and eat and we're always looking for new ways to reach our customers.

"As a convenience retailer we need to continue to adapt and our micro markets will allow us to have a Co-op presence in locations that aren't suitable for our traditional stores. The launch of these new ways to shop will allow us to serve our customers in an even more convenient way, with great tasting food."

Working in partnership with regional vending provider, Graddon Vending, the Co-op micro markets can be installed across hospitals, offices, schools, gyms and train stations, to provide a specially selected range, all made using high quality ingredients such as Free-Range Eggs, FSC Tuna and 100% British meat.

David Youldon at Graddon Vending said: "We're hugely excited to launch our innovative micro market with Co-op, which can be perfectly integrated into business spaces to provide fresh meals on demand, reinventing office lunches.

"Through this new proposition with Co-op, we're able to provide users with a super modern look and convenience store feel and access to more products than a vending machine but less than a full grocery store."

The news comes as Co Op reveals that supply chain issues have taken their toll on profits at its 2,500 stores nationally.

Figures show an underlying loss for the business - which includes funeral care - of £15 million for the six months to 3rd July. That's compared to a profit of £56 million a year ago.