Co-op taps VusionGroup technology to replace paper labels with electronic shelf edge labels in its near 2,400 stores

The Co-operative Group (Co-op) has partnered with VusionGroup to replace paper labels with electronic shelf edge labels in its near 2,400 stores.

The tie up is pitched as the largest single retailer roll-out of electronic shelf edge labels in the UK and Ireland.

These can display vital allergen information, nutritional information, country of origin or whether an item is produced locally. They can also support improved inventory management, while eliminating the paper waste associated with traditional paper labels. The labels can also instantly communicate Co-op member price savings, deals and savings.

Steven Logue, Co-op's Head of Operations, says: “With convenience at the heart of everything we do Co-op is committed to continually exploring innovative technology that can improve how we operate. The electronic labels have the potential to enhance product information and transparency, avoid paper waste, and make everyday tasks like picking online orders easier - improving ways of working, supporting our growth ambitions and enhancing the shopping experience for our members and customers.”

“We are immensely proud of this strategic partnership. Co-op's values align closely with our own, and this collaboration exemplifies how technology can foster sustainability and improve the in-store experience of customers and colleagues,” says Roy Horgan, CEO UK & Ireland at VusionGroup.

“Co-op's roll-out demonstrates its ongoing commitment to invest in physical stores which play a valuable role on UK high streets, making a positive impact on the communities it serves whilst enabling greater agility to react quicker to ever changing market dynamics and customer needs.”

“Our partnership with Co-op marks a major step for VusionGroup in the UK and Ireland region. We are proud of the growing customer base we have built here since 2015. We look forward to continuing helping physical retailers achieve their digital transformation in UK and Ireland,” adds Sébastien Fourcy, SEVP EMEA at VusionGroup.

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Electronic shelf edge labels will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.