Dagenham schoolchildren help re-open supermarket after £300,000 redevelopment

Co-op store reopened in Porters Avenue, Dagenham by a group of primary school children following a �300k redevelopment. (Image: Archant)

A team of eight pupil ambassadors from Dorothy Barley Junior Academy, in Ivinghoe Road, Dagenham, cut the red ribbon at the Co-operative Food store in Porters Avenue yesterday.

The Dagenham shop, which had been closed for two weeks, has been redefined, and redecorated, with a focus on fresh, healthy foods and essentials.

Customers flocked to take advantage of re-opening day bargains and store manager Paul Johnson was delighted by the reception.

“We are thrilled to have made such a significant investment in Dagenham, and delighted that we have a fantastic new food store with which to serve the community – it is an exciting time for the whole team,” he said.

“The Co-operative is a community retailer, and we are committed to playing an active role in local life, embracing the area’s community spirit. The store will be a hub for the local community, and customers will be able to find out what is going on locally, and learn about how The Co-operative can benefit local groups.

“With the combination of our new store, innovations in our own-brand ‘Loved by us’ range, and our newly launched £125million investment in lowering the price of everyday essentials, I am confident we will provide the community with everything needed to pick-up delicious food conveniently and create inspirational and tasty meals at home.”

The store is also pioneering a new role, known as a Community Pioneer, where a member of the food store team will work to foster involvement in community activities, from local fundraising initiatives to helping to understand and develop solutions to meet community needs.

On December 12 and 14, staff from the supermarket are set to visit residents of Harp House retirement home, in Helmore Road, Barking, to put on a festive afternoon of tea and entertainment.