A FAMILY-run store in Ilminster is embarking on a new chapter after more than 25 years of serving the community.
The Texaco garage and convenience store in Ilminster has joined forces with Co-op Wholesale under the Nisa brand, marking a major shift from its long-standing partnership with SPAR.
Owned and operated by Laurie McKinnon, who took over from his parents, the site has served the community for more than two decades and will now offer an expanded selection of products, including Co-op’s award-winning own-brand range.
Mr McKinnon said: "This is a significant moment for both our business and our customers.
"We’ve proudly served the Ilminster community for more than 25 years and, while moving away from a brand we’ve worked with for so long is a major decision, we believe partnering with Co-op Wholesale is the right step for the future.
"The new Nisa proposition gives us access to a fantastic range of products, including the trusted Co-op own-brand range, as well as valuable retail support and expertise that will help us continue improving our offer.
"Most importantly, it allows us to keep delivering the service and value our customers expect while remaining a truly independent, family-run business at the heart of the community."
The refreshed store now features Nisa’s branding, and new chillers stocked with Co-op’s food-to-go and food-for-later options.
More than 2,400 Co-op products are available to Nisa retailers, covering meal solutions and everyday essentials.
To celebrate the relaunch, the store and Making a Difference Locally have donated £500 to the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance.
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Ian King, business development and growth director at Co-op Wholesale, said: "We’re delighted to welcome Laurie and his team to Co-op Wholesale, the home of Nisa.
"Independent retailers are at the heart of what we do, and we’re committed to helping them succeed through a combination of market-leading support, strong commercial benefits and access to Co-op’s highly regarded own-brand range.
"Laurie’s store has built an excellent reputation in Ilminster over the years, and we’re excited to be supporting the next stage of its journey.
"We look forward to working together to help the business grow while continuing to serve its local community."
Kate Caroll, social value lead at Co-op Wholesale, said: "The partnership with Laurie’s store is a great example of how independent retailers can make a positive difference in their local communities through Making a Difference Locally.
"We’re pleased to support the donation to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance as part of the launch and look forward to seeing the impact of future fundraising for local causes across Ilminster."
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