Independent retailer the East of England Co-op will open a new store in Thetford, Norfolk in the winter of 2024/2025.

The store will be situated in the Kingsfleet development on Clifton Drive, and will be the retailer's first food store in the town. 

The 3,000ft²  tore will offer everyday essentials, hot and cold food-to-go options, an in-store bakery and fresh coffee.  

It will create employment opportunities in Thetford, with the East of England Co-op recruiting for customer service assistants and team managers.  

The move follows the recent opening of an East of England Co-op Funeral Services branch on Bury Road in Thetford. 

East of England Co-op chief executive Doug Field said: “We’re very excited to be opening our first food store in Thetford, cementing our presence in the town following the recent opening of a Funeral Services branch.  

“New store openings are always great news for our colleagues and members. We’re looking forward to bringing our quality products and exceptional customer service to Thetford, as well as extending our Community Cares fund, our support for local foodbanks and community outreach programmes which are so important to us.” 

This announcement comes shortly after the retailer disclosed plans for another new convenience store at Ipswich train station. 

The 1,500ft² cashless store will house two Barista Coffee-to-go machines, an in-store bakery, a Tango Ice Blast dispenser and a Fwip Ice Cream dispenser, as well as chilled beers, ciders and other beverages. 

The East of England Co-op is owned by its members.