WEYMOUTH'S newest supermarket was opening its doors today following a £600,000 investment - creating 12 local jobs.

The new 2,500 sq ft Co-operative is opening on the former Bath Store site in Buxton Road on Friday (August 6).

The store includes car parking, a free ATM, bakery, hot food and Fairtrade coffee dispenser alongside a focus on fresh, healthy products, meal ideas, food-to-go, ready meals and pizzas, free-from, vegan and plant-based products.

The store will run on 100 per cent renewable electricity.

Co-op will also receive a recycle unit for ‘soft’ plastics after the retailer announced last month the launch of Europe’s most extensive in-store recycling scheme for plastic bags and product wrapping.

Dorset Echo: Outside a new Co-operative store on Buxton Road, Weymouth. Picture: Dorset Echo/Michael TaylorOutside a new Co-operative store on Buxton Road, Weymouth. Picture: Dorset Echo/Michael Taylor

Students in Weymouth who are TOTUM cardholders – the new name for NUS extra – receive a 10 per cent discount.

Paul Barnes, Co-op Store Manager, said: “We are delighted to be launching Co-op’s newest store. It has a fantastic look and, we are looking forward to serving the community. We have worked to develop the range, choice, products and added services locally to create a really compelling offer locally.”

Anthony Wright, Co-op Area Manager, said: “Co-op is committed to connecting communities and making a difference locally, and our aim is to operate at the heart of local life.

"We also want customers to know that they can become a Member of the Co-op.

"In addition to unlocking additional value for themselves, our members help to make a difference to local causes - Co-op donates 2p in every pound to community causes when Members swipe their Membership card when buying own-branded products.

Dorset Echo: Outside a new Co-operative store on Buxton Road, Weymouth. Picture: Dorset Echo/Michael Taylor

"So by shopping at the Co-op our members are also helping to make good things happen in the community.”

A funding boost is also provided locally through Co-op’s Membership programme, which sees shoppers rewarded with 2p in every pound they spend on Co-op branded products added to their account balance.

The chain then also donates the same amount to local causes including The Jurassic Coast Trust, The Horse Course – Weymouth and the Cycling Without Age charity.