Claines Co-op will remain open after closure threat

Rumours swirled on social media that Claines 'little' Co-op, on Ombersley Road, will be closing earlier this year.

Residents were keen to point out how well-used the Co-op on Ombersley Road is - despite a larger branch of the supermarket being based on the same road.

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A Co-op spokesperson has now confirmed that the branch will be staying open and that it was committed to the local community.

They said: "There are no plans to close the store. The store is committed to serving and supporting Members and customers in the local community."

Cllr Mel Allcott, Worcestershire County and Worcester City councillor for Claines, previously launched an online petition to save the Co-op, emphasising the shop was used by a lot of elderly members of the community and young families for essential items.

Cllr Mel Allcott. (Image: Newsquest)

She said people living near the Co-op Food at 387 Ombersley Road, and herself, were all happy with the news.

Cllr Allcott said: "I am absolutely delighted to hear the little Co-op will remain open as a Co-op. 

"The good news was posted on the WR3 residents' Facebook group and one can see by the comments how pleased people are. 

"For many residents, the little Co-op is so much more than a shop, it is part and parcel of the community. 

"The staff know their customers and go above and beyond to look after them.

"I can see how hard the staff have worked to drive Co-op membership from this store. 

"They are a credit to their employer and to the community.

"If anyone is not yet a member I would encourage them to sign up to take advantage of the extra offers made to Co-op members. “

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Co-op previously refused to rule out the possibility the shop was closing.

Suggestions had been made that the shop may be taken over by either Nisa or Circle K, an American convenience store chain.