Co-op boosts colleague communication and safety with latest VoCoVo headset technology

VoCoVo, a retail communications specialist, has announced a new five-year partnership with convenience retailer Co-op, which will see its Series 5 (S5) Pro Headsets deployed to more than 2,300 stores nationwide.

Following a pilot across 114 stores, full roll-out commenced in February and is expected to be concluded next year. Co-op has worked with VoCoVo since 2017 and is upgrading its existing headset devices as part of a long-term investment in its in-store technology.

By enabling instant communication within stores and with Co-op’s Support Centre, the retailer says that teams can respond more quickly to customer needs, whether answering enquiries or requests for assistance, checking stock availability, managing parcel collections or handling online orders.

David Tyas, Head of Retail Support Centre & Innovation at Co-op, says: “As a convenience retailer, we are always exploring new and innovative ways to make improvements to the way we work, and to make shopping quicker and easier for our customers.”

“Following the trials, we are confident the S5 Pro Headsets will simplify everyday tasks for colleagues, strengthen communication and support our focus on ensuring a safe and enjoyable shopping environment for everybody, all while helping us deliver an even better experience for our members and customers”.

Martin Smethurst, Chief Customer Officer at VoCoVo, says: “Convenience retail plays a vital role in communities, serving as a central hub for local shoppers. That’s why we are proud to be supporting Co-op and helping to deliver seamless and exceptional experiences for customers. It’s exciting to continue collaborating on new visions together to further enhance the colleague and customer experience.” 

2026 RTIH Innovation Awards

Retail communications will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards are now open for entries and celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.

Check out our 2025 winners here.

Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC 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.