The Co-op is advancing its digital transformation with plans to deploy electronic shelf labels (ESL) across its entire estate of 2,400 stores by the close of 2026. This rollout is already underway, with 1,500 locations scheduled to receive ESL systems during the current year.
The initiative is being delivered in partnership with VusionGroup, a specialist in ESL technology and retail digital signage. The live display of prices and promotions aims to enhance shopper confidence by providing accurate, real-time pricing information, while also enabling the Co-op to respond dynamically to market conditions.
ESLs promise operational benefits including reduced labour costs associated with manual price changes and improved pricing accuracy, which is critical in an environment where customer trust is paramount.
The Co-op’s move reflects a wider industry trend towards digitisation in-store, aligning with its mission to modernise and improve the customer experience.