Midlands Co-op snap up Metro Stores

MIDLANDS Co-op has acquired eight convenience stores from local Burton-upon-Trent family business Metro Stores Ltd.

John Fitzgerald, Midlands Co-op Chief General Manager, told the News: "A great deal of local knowledge has been built up over 35 years in these stores. Metro is a well-respected name in the Burton area and we are proud to be doing business with such experienced retailers.

"We will continue to trade under the Metro name in the short term and will review our position in the new year. The product range will change to reflect the Co-op brand and to incorporate wider fresh food offer."

Mr Fitzgerald said the stores&#039 tight location and sound business foundations made the deal an extremely attractive proposition for the society.

The stores are located in: Waterloo Street, Burton; Winshill, Burton; Main Street, Stretton, Stapenhill, Burton; Main Street, Barton under Needwood; Station Road, Hatton; Eaton Park, Stretton, and Horninglow Road North, Burton.

This latest Midlands Co-op acquisition follows fast on the heels of the society&#039s purchase of three supermarkets from Budgens in Stretton, Burton upon Trent; Carlton in Lindrick, Worksop and Desborough, Northants.