Six new small food and beverage suppliers will see their products hit Co-op shelves across the UK this month.
These suppliers were selected to join Co-op’s Apiary programme, an initiative supporting emerging, values-driven brands through tailored mentoring and access to Co-op’s network of food stores.
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This latest group, the third wave of Apiary participants, will have their products stocked in over 100 Co-op locations as part of Co-op’s ongoing commitment to nurturing innovation and diversity within its range.
The Apiary programme, which includes Co-op’s Incubator and Accelerator tracks, is designed to support smaller producers in developing their brands within the UK retail market.
The selected businesses receive mentoring and guidance covering various aspects of retail, helping them adapt to commercial demands while preserving their distinctive qualities.
The new suppliers bring a variety of products, from snacks to pet treats, adding fresh options for Co-op’s customers and promoting diverse cultural and dietary offerings.
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By GlobalDataNew additions: a diverse range of products
The six new suppliers joining the Apiary programme offer a range of unique products with a focus on natural ingredients and dietary inclusivity. Cháps Soft Drinks, founded to celebrate African traditions, introduces a line of beverages inspired by traditional African flavours.
Cheeky Nibble, another new participant, provides allergen-free, vegan snacks and cereals inspired by British desserts, appealing to consumers looking for healthy and indulgent options.
ELEAT Cereal, a high-protein, low-sugar cereal created by friends Hywel Rose and Hugh Hamilton-Green, also joins the programme. Its founders aim to promote nutritious, plant-based eating.
Another addition, Family Secret, brings Proppadoms, a healthier poppadom snack born out of a desire to recreate global flavours for UK consumers.
Two more brands expand Co-op’s range further. Loro Crisps, co-founded by Natalia Welsh and Daniela Orrego, offers plantain crisps based on Latin American flavours, providing a high-fibre, vegan snack option.
Meanwhile, Some Grub, the programme’s first pet brand, introduces a line of insect-based dog treats, catering to pet owners interested in high-protein, sustainable nutrition for their animals.
Programme changes aim to increase supplier diversity
This new cohort is the first since Co-op made changes to its Apiary programme to broaden supplier diversity. Alongside the Incubator programme, Co-op has added an Accelerator track, which enables smaller-scale producers to engage with Co-op at different stages of their brand development.
This adjustment allows Co-op to work with more producers who may need guidance at various points in their business journey, promoting a more inclusive range of products for consumers.
One method Co-op uses to find these emerging suppliers is through its collaboration with RangeMe, a platform where brands can create a profile and showcase their products.
Co-op’s approach reflects its broader goal to support early-stage companies in becoming “retail-ready” while providing customers with access to innovative products that cater to a range of tastes and preferences.
Through the Apiary programme, Co-op seeks to provide emerging businesses with more than just shelf space.
The chosen brands gain access to insights on consumer behaviour, market trends, and the operational demands of large-scale retail.
