A new Co-op store has opened at the site of a former pub in South Tyneside - creating 15 jobs.
The shop, inside the old Grey Horse pub on the corner of Mill Lane and North Guards, in Whitburn, started welcoming customers on Friday.
Plans to convert the building into a 2,500 sq ft store were given the green light by South Tyneside Council’s planning committee last year. Around £650,000 was invested in the scheme.
The shop, which will open between 6am and 11pm daily, includes customer car parking, a bakery and Costa coffee express, and will stock fresh produce, ready meals, Fairtrade, free-from and vegan products, as well as food-to-go.
A click and collect service is also available through Co-op's online shop and students in Whitburn who are TOTUM cardholders - the new name for NUS extra – can receive a 10% discount off groceries.
Damian Judson, store manager, said: "The whole team are excited to welcome customers to the new store. We have worked to develop the range, choice, products and services locally that will create a really compelling offer in the community."
Ben Letby, Co-op area manager, added: "Co-op is committed to connecting communities and we’re excited to meet and greet those in the local area.
"I wanted to let locals know that they can become members of the Co-op and unlock additional value and personalised offers.
"Our members also make a difference to local causes, with Co-op now donating 2% to community causes every time a member swipes their membership card when buying own-branded products."
Co-op's Community Shopping Card makes it easier for those self-isolating or who have been instructed to stay at home to shop and pay for their essentials.
Cards can be bought or topped-up by calling 0800 029 4592, enabling friends, families, neighbours or volunteers to shop on their behalf in store.
Meanwhile, a Co-op store in Newcastle city centre is preparing to close its doors. The branch on Market Street has announced it will shut on March 20, with 15 members of staff at risk of redundancy.
