Verdict Retail has said that UK retailer The Co-operative's decision to invest in the quality of its own-brand range, could mean that private label becomes a 'more important USP'' for the retailer, 'especially as value becomes more of an expectation in store choice for consumers rather than a differentiator'.
Zoe Mills, Analyst at Verdict Retail said that "the Co-op has a lot to be happy about, as despite the tricky food market, it has increased l-f-l sales, notably at its convenience stores, a relative success given the hardship that other grocers have faced."
In addition, Mills added that The Co-op faces "stiff competition from the likes of Tesco and Sainsbury's for convenience market share."
However, the fact that both opposing grocers are also seeking to turn around their bigger stores, means that the retailer has "less worries in this regard".
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