THE Co-op has opened its newest food store in Southampton following a £800,000 investment.

The new store in Ocean Village, will provide 17 full and part time jobs and has an in-store bakery, Costa Coffee machine, cash machine, self-scan tills and paypoint.

Mayor of Southampton Cllr Stephen Barnes Andrews cut the ribbon the declare the new store officially open.

Anna Ballinger, Co-op store manager said: “We are delighted to have undertaken such a significant investment in Southampton and are very proud to be part of this community.”

There are offers and promotions in and around the store to mark its launch.

In January, the community retailer unveiled a £50M price investment programme to cut the cost of everyday essentials including fruit, vegetables,

bread, fresh meat and ready meals, as well as household brand names.

Students in the area holding an NUS card receive a 10% discount at the Co-op to support them during their studies.