Here is the response I received today about the two Co-op shops in Portlethen which are due to be taken over in November by McColl’s, best known as a newsagent’s chain.
“Thank you for your e-mail regarding McColl’s acquiring The Green and Rowanbank Road Co-Op stores.
“We are delighted to say that we have entered into an agreement with the Co-op to acquire 298 Co-op convenience stores and 38 Post Offices throughout the UK. The agreement is subject to CMA and shareholder approval. Our plan is to invest in these stores and successfully trade both the shops and Post Offices.
“Please see quote from Jonathan Miller, McColl’s Retail Group Chief Executive, which demonstrates McColl’s commitment to these new stores.
” ‘I am delighted to announce the acquisition of 298 quality convenience stores in a transformational deal for McColl’s. This opportunity substantially accelerates our growth strategy and expands our neighbourhood presence for the benefit of our customers.
” ‘These stores are profitable, well invested, and the perfect size for our operating model.
” ‘I look forward to welcoming all of our new colleagues to the business.’
“By the end of the year we will have over 1,000 convenience stores throughout the UK. McColl’s is a leading neighbourhood retailer in the managed sector running 1,366 convenience and newsagent stores. We operate 933 McColl’s branded UK convenience stores as well as 433 newsagents branded Martin’s, except in Scotland where we operate under our heritage brand, RS McColl. We have more than doubled our number of convenience stores over the last eight years, which now accounts for over half of the estate. In addition we are also the largest operator of Post Offices in the UK.”