Co-op, when compared to other supermarkets, can be classed somewhere above rubbish, but not super (more of a su-market).
They have a fair range of products, including many of their own branded products (but they obviously have a lot of the other brands too). Their home brands are actually very good (especially the jaffa cakes). They are sometimes considerably cheaper, and although quality may not be compared 100%, they're still pretty good (and won't make you ill - hopefully).
Isles and products are arranged as you would expect in any big store (long, straight and in an order which always looks the same). I never take too much notice to where things are placed. Generally, I don't think that many super markets actually get this wrong. As long as everything is placed about the store in some sort of logical order (which it is here), you should be able to find what you need (and you can).
I've never had any problems with the staff either. They all do their jobs well, but there's something about them which also makes them different from the others. Maybe its because they're just as bored as the customers?! Anyway, I have nothing against them. They are helpful when they need to be.
The idea of co-op (co-operative pioneer), I think, is to just produce all of the necessary goods, at cheap prices. They do this well, and they definitely are one of the cheapest. Especially for alcoholic beverages. They have some very nice little deals available, and although the choice is not massive, they generally stock a limited range of just about everything. This applies to not just the drink but also the food.
They do not quite meet the standards of the major stores such as Tesco and Sainsburys. But this is obviously just to do with their lack of popularity, and also money (but if they were more popular, they'd have the money, right!?).
Something is lacking in the atmosphere of the co-op stores. On occasions that I have visited (of which there are many), it just seems like a very boring place to be. I'm not saying that any of the other bigger supermarkets are actually exciting, but this place is just very dull. A bit like Lidls or other shops like that. The quality of the shop decoration requires a drastic change really. It always seems very cold (not actual temperature, but the colours). Bigger stores are brighter and this definitely leads to a more interesting shop (which will draw customers in).
Overall, Co-op is a cheap store with a limited range, but what they do sell is often all that you'd need. Its the perfect place for students especially.
26.12.2000 00:08
good op. I dont have aco-op supermarket near me but do have co-op dept store which is cheap and friendly, helpful staff! thanks
25.12.2000 22:35
Good opinion BJEEE, I agree with most of your comments. I know co-op doesn't compare very well with the big supermarkets but I think they aim at at different market, more a large local store than a 'super' market. But I must agree, it's a very, very boring place to shop!
25.12.2000 02:17
Hi Ben Thanks for your comments on my ops, and for adding me to your "Circle of Trust" Here's wishing you the best Christmas ever. LOL Ken J (cujimmy)