Ludlow Co-op reopens with a new bakery following takeover by SGN Retail

Co-op, in Foldgate Lane, reopened yesterday (Friday, February 21) under new ownership after being shut for just over a month for refurbishment. 

SGN Retail, an independent retailer based in Essex, formally took over the business on January 24 with plans to continue selling Co-op products. 

While the rebranded petrol forecourt reopened just three days later, on January 27, customers in the town have been eagerly waiting for the store’s relaunch. 

Lib Dem coun for Ludlow Andy Boddington visited the store the day it reopened for business. 

In his blog, the councillor said: “I was nervous about this at first, but it looks great, lighter, more space. 

“It is now the national Co-op not Midshires but it still has the same friendly feel and many of the same staff.”

Andy continued: “The first thing that struck me about the new Co-op on Foldgate Lane today was the approach for pedestrians had been improved. 

“The bushes on Foldgate Lane and Sheet Road has had a hard trim and the litter and fly-tipping had been removed. That’s the first time in a decade.”

Finding the store to be “brighter” and “lighter” and more spacious, Andy said there is also a laundry on-site and a bakery.