The closure follows the launch of a new store concept that aimed to combine traditional convenience retail with breakfast, lunch and dinner options. The decision affects one of several “on the go” stores introduced by the retailer as it tested a different approach to high street shopping.
Chelmsford Branch Closes After Short Trial Period
A notice placed in the store window confirmed that the Co-op on the go branch would close on Saturday, 29 August 2026. According to the Daily Express, the store was the first example of the retailer’s new format in Essex, opening in a prominent unit on Chelmsford High Street.
The 850-square-foot shop differed from a standard Co-op convenience store. It included a hot food counter, Costa Coffee drinks, pastries, pizza and deli-style products alongside the retailer’s usual meal deals and everyday essentials.
The branch operated seven days a week from 7am to 7pm and also offered delivery through Just Eat, Deliveroo and Uber Eats. Customers could order products including Co-op Irresistible Pizzas, while the store also provided seating and phone charging points.
A spokesperson for Co-op said: “After careful consideration a decision has been taken for our small food to go store – which is located in the High Street, Chelmsford – to close.” The retailer added that it remained committed to serving the local area through its nearby store on the corner of Marconi Street and New Street.
Second Closure Raises Questions Around the New Format
The Chelmsford closure follows another shutdown involving the same “on the go” concept. According to Altrincham Today, the Co-op store at the Stamford Quarter in Altrincham was also due to close at the end of August 2026, less than a year after opening in September 2025.
The Altrincham branch was the first of the new format to open in the North West. It offered a similar range of products, including prepared meals, hot food options and delivery services outside normal store hours.
When the Altrincham shop launched, Co-op Director of Store Optimisation Gary Williams said the retailer wanted to bring together freshly prepared products, convenience and quick service for customers looking for meals throughout the day.
The opening was part of a wider redevelopment of the Stamford Quarter, an area that had welcomed new retail and hospitality businesses. The store was expected to contribute to the changing mix of businesses in the town centre.
No reason has been given by Co-op for the Altrincham closure, while the retailer has not provided further details about the wider future of the format. The company previously stated that the concept would be introduced in high-footfall locations across the UK after earlier openings.
The two closures mark an early change for a retail idea created to respond to demand for convenient meals and quick shopping trips. The remaining Co-op stores and future decisions on the format will show how the retailer develops its approach to changing high street habits.
