Co-op has unveiled a new five-year partnership with a retail communications specialist which will see advanced headsets deployed to more than 2,300 stores nationwide.

Following a pilot across 114 stores, full rollout of the headsets began in February and is expected to be concluded next year.

Co-op has worked with the solutions provider VoCoVo since 2017 and is upgrading its existing headset devices as part of a long-term investment in its in-store technology. 

The S5 pro headsets offer “advanced capabilities” to keep staff “connected at all times, promote safety and streamline communication across the shop floor,” according to the retailer. 

The move comes as Co-op claims that it saw retail crime fall in 2025.

Co-op head of retail support centre and innovation David Tyas said: “As a convenience retailer, we are always exploring new and innovative ways to make improvements to the way we work, and to make shopping quicker and easier for our customers. 

“Following the trials, we are confident the S5 pro headsets will simplify everyday tasks for colleagues, strengthen communication and support our focus on ensuring a safe and enjoyable shopping environment for everybody, all while helping us deliver an even better experience for our members and customers”.

The news follows a recent report from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) that violence and abuse against retail workers had fallen by around a fifth over the past year.

Despite this, incidents remained near record levels with staff still facing an average of 1,600 cases every day.

The BRC’s annual Crime Survey showed that daily incidents dropped from roughly 2,000 in 2023/24 to 1,600 in the most recent financial year. 

Retailers attributed the decline to heavier investment in security, improved collaboration with police forces and closer engagement with government.

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