Co-op in race against clock

By Simon Tostevin

THE new Co-op store in the Town Markets is set to open on Tuesday. But Channel Island Co-operative Society chief executive Jim Hopley admitted yesterday that it was becoming a race against time.

‘We are working towards a Tuesday opening, but it’s difficult because we are nearing Christmas and we are having troubles with delays on the boats.

‘It was horrendous trying to get food to the island over the weekend.’

If all goes to plan, then the current Market Street store will close for good on Saturday.

‘We need that extra 24 hours on Monday to allow for the transfer of our IT kit and as well as setting up our own operation, we have to integrate three residual market traders.’

Joining the Co-op to operate in the 6,500sq. ft site are Hackley’s Fruit and Flowers, Lucas Fish and butcher Russell Welbourne.

A post office and a branch of Lloyds pharmacy will also open within the facility, although Lloyds will continue to operate from the former post office on the corner of Commercial Arcade.

Mr Hopley, who has been in the business for 30 years, said it had always been his aim to offer a large store in the centre of Town - the Co-op’s Market Street shop measured just 1,500sq. ft.

‘We have tried as best we can to create a market feel in there with the butcher, fishmonger and a fruit and veg stall.

‘We have spent a lot of time and money and worked a lot with Heritage to maintain the integrity of the building.

‘The ceiling in there is absolutely amazing and whatever has been done in there has been done sympathetically to the building’s heritage.

‘I think the customers will be amazed with what we have done, because I know we are. We are really pleased at how it has shaped up. It’s been a very difficult development, but it is going to be a pleasure to give them a comprehensive offering in the centre of St Peter Port.’

Mr Hopley said it had been nearly two years since the Co-op had entered into negotiations with Markets developer McAulay about the feasibility of moving into the site.

‘This is the last piece of the jigsaw, in a way. It’s the oldest bit and the most traditional part.’