The Co-op launches its newest food store in Ammanford this week following a £650,000 investment by the community retailer creating five new jobs

The new store, which opens on Thursday, 27 September, is located in College Street, on the site of the former police station, and will include a Costa coffee dispenser, in-store bakery and customer car parking, alongside its focus on fresh healthy foods, meal ideas, award winning wines and essentials.

The store also brings a funding boost locally through its Membership scheme. Members receive a five per cent reward on the purchase of own-brand products and services, with the Co-op donating a further one per cent to local good causes.

The near 3,000 sq. ft. store will replace the existing nearby Co-op, which close on Wednesday, September 26, to provide an “improved shopping experience to better serve the community”.

Chris Ellis, Co-op Area Manager, said: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to carry out such a significant investment in Ammanford.

"We are proud to be part of the community, and are looking forward to opening a new, purpose-designed store, in order to better serve our members and customers.

“We are investing in our stores, products, prices, colleagues and communities. Our aim is for our stores to be at the heart of local life, bringing communities together and offering great quality products when and where our members and customers need them.

"We also want customers to know that they can become a co-owner and member of their Co-op. And, that we are also giving back to the community.

"Our members make a difference locally, simply by swiping their membership card when they shop with us they are raising much needed funding for organisations in the area who contribute to improving local life.”

Earlier this year the community retailer unveiled a £50m price investment programme to cut the cost of everyday essentials including fruit, vegetables, bread, fresh meat and ready meals, as well as household brand names.

The Co-op also offers students holding a NUS extra card a 10 per cent discount off their groceries to support them during their studies.

Further information about the benefits of Co-op membership and, its local Community Fund, is available by visiting: http://www.coop.co.uk/membership/