Co-op Wholesale has secured a multi-year strategic partnership with Tankerford, a prominent forecourt operator, to supply its private label products across Tankerford’s network of convenience stores. This collaboration aims to strengthen the on-the-go food offerings that meet the increasing demand for quality and convenience in the forecourt retail sector. Ian King, Business Development and Growth Director at Co-op Wholesale, highlighted the alignment of visions between the two companies, emphasising their shared commitment to innovation, quality, and customer service in the fast-paced forecourt environment. According to King, leveraging Co-op Wholesale’s established supply and logistics infrastructure will enable Tankerford to broaden its portfolio and better serve on-the-go consumers.

Tankerford’s Retail Sales Director, Jamie Wheeler, expressed optimism about the deal, stating the partnership supports the continued expansion of their Refuel Market brand, which focuses on delivering consistent quality and value to forecourt shoppers. The agreement is expected to enhance Tankerford’s food-to-go selection by tapping into Co-op Wholesale’s extensive private label range and robust logistics capabilities, giving forecourt customers a greater variety of convenient, high-quality options.

This partnership is part of Co-op Wholesale’s broader strategic push in the forecourt and motorway service area retail sector. Recently, Co-op Wholesale signed a five-year agreement with another major forecourt retailer, Ascona Group, which operates 62 forecourts across the UK. Darren Briggs, CEO of Ascona Group, emphasised the importance of offering first-class roadside retail destinations, while Co-op Wholesale expressed its commitment to supporting Ascona’s expansion and investment plans with its award-winning own-brand products.

Additionally, Co-op Wholesale has confirmed a multi-year contract with Roadchef, a leading UK motorway service area operator. This partnership involves supplying eight convenience stores, previously operated by Spar, with Co-op’s range of own-brand products. The first stores are planned to open between June and September 2025, marking a notable shift in motorway retail offerings. The collaboration with Roadchef has since expanded to include supplying WHSmith stores located at Roadchef service areas, providing a wider range of food and drink products to motorists seeking convenience and quality while travelling.

Co-op Wholesale’s recent series of partnerships with Tankerford, Ascona Group, Roadchef, and WHSmith reflects a concerted effort to become a key supplier in the forecourt and motorway retail sectors. These agreements demonstrate the company’s focus on providing high-quality, convenient food-to-go products to meet evolving consumer needs across the UK’s roadside retail landscape.