Co-op poaches new property boss Rachel Hargreaves from Lidl

Hargreaves joins from Lidl where she was most recently regional head of property and took responsibility for the implementation of its expansion strategy.

Hargreaves will work towards ensuring that the Co-op is “at the forefront of landowners’, developers’ and agents’ minds”.

The Co-op said the appointment comes as it eyes freehold or leasehold sites for its operations as well as new locations for its “growing franchise business”, which enables it to bring products and membership benefits to more customers.

She will report directly to group property director Heather Thomas and also direct and lead the grocery retailer on new initiatives to “maximise the potential” of its existing property portfolio.

Hargreaves said: “I am thrilled to join Co-op at such a key time. Co-op is an iconic British household name that is marking its 180th anniversary, and it is clear that the importance of cooperation in communities across the UK could not be more relevant today.

“This is an exciting opportunity with Co-op focused on delivering increased value for its member-owners, and well placed to target additional growth through its core business areas.”

Thomas added: “With our stores located at the heart of local community life, we are planning for the future with a focus on growing our business for our member-owners, and enhancing the value we deliver to them and their communities – whether that is acquiring new space or maximising the potential of our existing estate.

“Rachel brings a wealth of experience and joins us at an exciting time as we continue to put in place the building blocks for our strategic growth plans across our Co-op.”