Hertford Co-op re-opens after makeover

The 2,200sq ft convenience store, which features a free ATM and bakery,  now has new self-service tills and offers John Lewis parcel collection. Groceries from the store are also available through the Deliveroo app.

In addition, the works re-discovered a long-lost piece of community history, which is now commemorated. Above the new sign over the door, customers will now see a stone plaque relating to the Enfield Highway Co-operative Society Limited that dates back to the 1870s. The historic plaque has been renovated and remains on display.

Hazel Rudulph, Co-op store manager, said: “It has been a fantastic opportunity to carry out such a significant investment to enhance and improve our store for the Bengeo community. We are looking forward to welcoming customers into their new-look store – we have worked to develop the range, choice, products and services locally that will create a really compelling offer in the community.”

Co-op’s community member pioneer in Bengeo, Kim Hale, added: “Discovering this long-lost piece of history hidden was a remarkable moment for the whole team, we had no idea it was there. Members of the community were very keen to see it saved for the future, and so were we. It has been restored and framed as part of the works. The sign denotes a proud past, and now the store has an exciting future following these improvements.”