The Co-op is set to serve up its newest food store this month April 26 following a £2.5M investment.

The new store, on Spring Road, replaces the previous location, a forecourt on Wodehouse Road and features an in-store bakery, hot food, Costa Coffee and self-service tills.

The new store will bring a funding boost for local good causes through its Membership scheme.

Members receive a 5% reward on the purchase of own-branded products and services, with a further 1% benefitting local good causes. The good causes selected for this store are the 9th Itchen Woolston Sea Scouts, Royal Southampton Yacht Club and Woolston Community Primary School.

The store includes an in-store bakery, self-service tills and Paypoint, alongside its focus on fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas, award winning wines and essentials

Dan Barnes, Co-op store manager said: “We are delighted to have undertaken such a significant investment in Itchen and are very proud to be part of this community.”

Colin Hayward, Co-op area manager, added: “The Co-op is moving forward with a clear purpose and momentum, and our ambition is to ensure the store is a local hub for people living in the area.

“We also want shoppers to know that they can become a co-owner and member of their Co-op. Our members make a difference locally and simply by swiping their membership card when they shop with us, they are raising much needed funding for organisations who contribute to improving local life.”

There are offers and promotions in and around the store to mark its launch. In January, the community retailer unveiled a £50M price investment programme to cut the cost of everyday essentials including fruit, vegetables, bread, fresh meat and ready meals, as well as household brand names.

And, students in the area holding an NUS card receive a 10% discount at the Co-op to support them during their studies.