Co-op has launched a new rapid delivery grocery app, Peckish, aimed at supporting independent retailers by providing them with a platform to serve local customers online.

The app marks a first for a UK supermarket, offering smaller, often family-owned stores the opportunity to establish an online presence and provide quick delivery services to their communities.

According to the convenience giant, Peckish will allow independent retailers to curate their own product selection and set their own prices.

They can also choose whether to manage deliveries themselves or have Co-op handle them through its extensive delivery network.

Co-op Food MD Matt Hood said: “The growth and popularity of quick commerce in the UK is exceptional, as consumers’ appetite for a convenient grocery delivery service in as little as 30 minutes from ordering increases almost weekly.

“We are experts in running small, local convenience shops and the leading quick commerce operator, and I’m excited about being able to share this expertise with all our neighbouring independent retailers, to help them extend their customer reach and services online, which in turn, can help transform their businesses.”

The app integrates with retailers’ EPOS systems to automate tasks like pricing and stock control.

Co-op’s £1m investment into Peckish follows a successful trial with 30 stores last year, with plans to sign up over 1,000 shops in its first year.

The app is designed to overcome the challenges smaller retailers face when moving online, including high costs and limited resources.

The goal is to make it easier for local stores to compete in the growing online grocery market, providing customers with more choice and convenience.

Hood continued: “We know that smaller local shops, like our own, operate at the heart of the local community life. More than a shop, they are a community hub, creating value locally through job creation, community participation, and their support of local suppliers.

“The ‘shop local’ sentiment is strong amongst consumers, and Peckish can help more retailers connect quickly online with their customers, providing greater consumer choice locally, and promoting healthier and more viable high streets and communities.”

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