Co-op to create 1,700 jobs

The Co-operative Group is to create 1,700 new management jobs in its food stores over the next few months, the company announced today.

Acquisitions of stores from other retailers and co-operative societies mean that management structures differ widely, the company said.

The new jobs are in addition to plans to expand the Co-operative's food store network in the next three years, which will create around 7,000 jobs.

Chief executive Tim Hurrell said: "We're adopting a consistent approach that is appropriate to the size of each store and will help us meet our goal of delivering excellent service.

"The net effect is a gain of 1,700 jobs and these jobs will be at management level in stores. Where we fill these roles internally it will create opportunities at all levels.

"We are proud of the role our stores play at the heart of so many communities, right across the UK, and these changes will help us to further improve our customer service."

Despite the extra jobs, some stores will reduce the number of management positions, the company added.