The Southern Co-op’s Welcome franchise will expand to 33 stores this year with the addition of eight branches. 

One of the retail groups joining the franchise in the first half of 2019 is George Hammond PLC, which will bring six new forecourts. They are based in Dover South Services, Three Elm Service Station, Queensborough Service Station, Thanet Way Services, Deal Service Station and Priory Service Station. 

George Hammond PLC director John Ryeland said: “Transferring to the Welcome franchise gives us support from the Southern Co-op team and access to products and promotions in Co-op stores.”

More news from Co-op: Co-op outlines franchise application requirements