Focus on essential items and community as Southern Co-op opens stores on Xmas Day
Selected Southern Co-op stores and forecourts across the south of England will open on Christmas Day.
On 25th December, 67 stores - just over a third of Southern Co-op’s retail estate - will open for a limited period, with main convenience stores trading from 10am–2pm and petrol station forecourts trading from 8am–6pm.
The initiative was born from colleague feedback who said they wanted to be there for people needing last minute essentials and for those who might welcome a friendly face.
Simon Eastwood, Chief Operating Officer at Southern Co-op, says: “Christmas Day looks different for everyone, but having access to essentials can make a real difference.”
“Whether it’s picking up ingredients for a traditional turkey roast, topping up groceries for a neighbour, or making sure someone has what they need if plans change unexpectedly, our colleagues understand the importance of this and have put themselves forward to open selected stores for a short time.”
“We’re incredibly grateful for their commitment, which reflects the heart of co-operative working - people choosing to support others, share in the benefits, and uplift their communities.”
The list of participating stores and their opening hours will be available via the retailer’s store locator in the lead up to Christmas Day.
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
Physical stores were a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.
For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
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