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Construction begins on new Co-op store in Kesgrave

Work has begun to build a new East of England Co-op Food store in Kesgrave, set to open in late 2026.

Aerial photo of land
Drone image showing the future East of England Co‑op Kesgrave site
(Ashley Pickering/Anglia Picture Agency)

Why it matters: The store will extend food retail choice in Grange Farm, an area that has been growing with new housing, while creating jobs.

The details: The 3,000 sq. ft. store will be built in Hartree Way. Work started earlier this week with Elliston, Steady & Hawes, a construction firm based in Great Blakenham, appointed to manage the project.

The Co-op will recruit customer service assistants and team managers late next year, though the number of positions was not disclosed.

Group of people
Stakeholders and contractors gather on-site as construction work gets underway(Ashley Pickering/Anglia Picture Agency)

What they're saying: Stuart McDonald, chief property & strategy officer at the East of England Co-op, said: "We're delighted work is beginning to bring the town of Kesgrave a first-class food store. We're proud to be investing in Kesgrave and creating a fresh, modern and sustainable food store designed to meet the needs of the fantastic community it will serve."

For context: The East of England Co-op is independent of the national Co-op Group and is owned by its members. The co-operative has operated for over 155 years and has a turnover of over £385m.

The bottom line: Work to build a new 3,000 sq. ft. Co-op store in Grange Farm, Kesgrave has started this week, with a planned opening of late 2026.

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Despite a lack of promotion, the big reveal drew a good crowd of passersby

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