Franchise Deal Marks Strategic Move into Food-To-Go (FTG) Market

Southern Co-op is proud to announce its latest franchise partnership with Wenzel’s – one the UK’s largest family-run bakery retailers.

This collaboration marks Wenzel’s first-ever franchise partnership, expanding its customer base into new regions across the country.

The company, an independent family-run business led by founder Peter Wenzel and his daughter Sarah as CEO, celebrates its 50th anniversary on the British high street this year and prides itself on offering handcrafted, high-quality baked goods using traditional baking methods.

The new partnership reflects Southern Co-op’s strategic focus on expanding into the growing demand for FTG bringing fresh, on-the-go food offerings to high-footfall locations with speed, quality and convenience.

The first store under the new franchise model, is set to open in Guildford in early September, with more expected to follow in the near future.

Nick Smith, Central Services Director at Southern Co-op said: “We’re incredibly excited to partner with Wenzel’s as they take their first step into franchising.

“This partnership represents a powerful alignment of values – great food, great service and a great opportunity to grow. We’re confident that this is only the beginning of a successful journey together.”

Sarah Wenzel, CEO of Wenzel’s, said: “We’re delighted that Southern Co-op have chosen to be our franchise partner and are confident that our collaborative partnership will be mutually beneficial and rewarding in the coming year”.

“Southern Co-op is a business that has consistently put the community first, and with this shared vision of offering high-quality food for all, we’re in a strong position to bring delicious, freshly baked goods at accessible prices to even more customers across the UK”.