Co-op launches wholesale division with new MD at the helm

The Co-op group has launched Co-op wholesale in a bid to re-affirm its commitment to the independent retail sector.

Drawing on more than 160 years of wholesale heritage, the move re-enforces the group’s commitment to drive increased value for independent retailer.

In addition, former Nisa retail and sales director Katie Secretan has been named as the new managing director for Co-op wholesale.

Secretan, who joined Nisa in January 2024, was instrumental in unlocking growth opportunities for both retailers and prospects, according to the business.

Prior to her time at Nisa, she held roles such as retail transformation director at Post Office and retail franchise and corporate partnerships director for Costa Coffee UK & Ireland.

Co-op manging director for b2b and growth Jerome Saint-Marc said: “Our commitment to all our partners remains as strong as ever, to ensure their businesses drive profitable growth now and for generations to come.

“Our move to Co-op wholesale is a strategic step forward for us and one we’re immensely proud of. It’ll allow us to deliver expansive growth and operational excellence for our B2B partners, bringing them the products they need, at the right price, when they need them.”

“With a new leadership team, strategy and vision, we have one clear goal and that is to drive growth by bringing the best of Co-op to our partners.

“And following the expertise, drive and passion we’ve witnessed from Katie in the last year, I am delighted that she will be stepping into her role to power the business forward.”

The move comes after Co-op price matched rival grocer Aldi on 100 of its everyday essentials earlier this week for its members in stores and online.

Last week, the retailer also extended its Uber Eats partnership for another three years, strengthening its commitment to rapid home delivery.

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