Co-op has opened its first service station store which could pave the way for a doubling of its franchise shops by the end of the year.

The 2,000sq ft Cornwall Services shop off the A30 at St Austell is the 15th franchise in the Co-op portfolio with university campus among other sites which are poised to grow.

Head of new channels Martin Rogers said: "We're always looking for ways to reach new customers and members.

"Our franchise offering has gone from strength to strength as we focus on generating mutual value with forward thinking like-minded partners and our expertise and learnings in this area are helping us access new markets all over the country."

The expansion follows Co-op being upgraded to associated member accreditation by the British Franchise Association.