UK retail and convenience operator Southern Co-op has appointed Matt Turner as its new Head of Franchise, following the retirement of long-serving franchise leader Mike Fitton.
Turner steps into the role after previously serving as Head of Funeral Services at the co-operative. He brings extensive operational and commercial experience to the position, having worked across multiple areas of the business during his tenure with the retailer.
The appointment comes at a time when Southern Co-op is continuing to strengthen its franchise and convenience retail operations across the UK. The regional co-operative operates more than 300 convenience stores, funeral homes, cafés and franchise outlets across southern England, while also expanding its “Welcome” convenience franchise network.
Southern Co-op’s franchise business has become an increasingly important growth area for the retailer, particularly as convenience retail and community-led store formats continue to gain traction across local UK markets. The company’s Welcome franchise brand has steadily expanded in recent years, with new stores opening across several towns and cities.
Turner’s appointment also comes amid broader expansion activity within the UK co-operative retail sector. Recent industry reports indicate that co-operative retailers are accelerating franchise growth strategies through partnerships and local store development initiatives.
