Co-op’s Apiary Program Welcomes Six Innovative Suppliers to UK Stores
The Co-op’s Apiary program is introducing six new suppliers across its UK food stores, spotlighting values-driven brands with a focus on food and drink innovation. Known for its community-centered approach, Co-op has handpicked these brands through its Apiary incubator, aiming to bring fresh perspectives, quality, and diversity to the shelves.
This third wave of Co-op new suppliers exemplifies Co-op’s commitment to nurturing small-scale suppliers who promote inclusivity and ethical consumerism. These suppliers’ products, available in over 100 Co-op stores nationwide, span a variety of food categories, from healthy snacks to ethically sourced pet treats.
Among these innovative brands, Cháps—a new beverage company—introduces flavors inspired by traditional African drinks. Cháps, dedicated to sharing the vibrant culture and taste of Africa, adds an exotic twist to the Co-op food stores’ lineup. Such diversity highlights Co-op’s commitment to range diversity, making it more than just a convenience retailer.
Alongside Cháps, Co-op shelves will now stock Cheeky Nibble’s vegan, allergen-free snacks. Founded by Marietta Hickman, the brand draws on her personal experiences to offer snacks that accommodate a variety of dietary needs, reflecting Co-op’s values-led business ethos. Cheeky Nibble aims to attract customers looking for fun, nutritious options that suit modern dietary preferences.
The Co-op’s Apiary program also includes ELEAT Cereal, designed as a high-protein, low-sugar breakfast choice. Founders Hywel Rose and Hugh Hamilton-Green crafted ELEAT to cater to health-conscious consumers seeking nutritious yet convenient breakfast options. Their values align well with Co-op’s emphasis on offering healthier, on-the-go snacks.
Family Secret’s “Proppadoms” also join Co-op’s innovative products. Founded by Sunny and Harmeet Mudhar, this brand brings flavors from around the world to UK consumers, appealing to the Co-op community interested in unique snacking options. This addition emphasizes Co-op’s goal of fostering consumer cooperatives that bring cultural depth to the British market.
Loro Crisps, another new brand, offers plantain crisps that draw from Latin American flavors. Bursting with natural fiber and potassium, Loro Crisps introduce a sustainable, low-sodium snack to Co-op stores. By bringing global flavors into the British snacking culture, Loro enhances Co-op’s product range and emphasizes ethical sourcing.
Completing the lineup is Some Grub, an insect-based pet food brand focusing on eco-friendly pet care. Founded by Ben Chapman and Oliver Harkus, Some Grub introduces pet treats that are high in protein, iron, and Omega-3s, catering to ethical consumerism and sustainable brands. As the first pet-focused brand in the Apiary program, Some Grub signifies Co-op’s support for emerging brands across diverse categories.
Rebecca Oliver-Mooney, Co-op’s Head of Commercial, highlights the impact of these partnerships. “Seeing these innovative brands on Co-op shelves represents our dedication to values-driven brands and supplier inclusivity. We aim to help smaller brands scale effectively,” she said. Through the Apiary program, Co-op provides tailored mentoring and retail mentoring to support supplier growth and offer customers a diverse range of new products.
The Co-op’s Apiary program, including its recent Accelerator initiative, underscores Co-op’s ongoing mission to diversify its offerings. With a reputation for ethical consumerism and social goals, Co-op continues to engage suppliers that share these values.
For investors and industry professionals, Co-op’s support of emerging suppliers aligns with the current market trend favoring ethical sourcing and consumer inclusivity. As these values-led brands gain retail exposure, Co-op’s Apiary program stands out as an incubator fostering range diversity and innovation in the food retail industry.
