Cooplands of Doncaster will offer a “bigger and better range”, according to its new owners, following the closure of 39 stores and a move to a major supermarket bakery supplier. 

Bought by the London-based corporate restructure specialists ReSolve, 41 shops remain open and British Baker has learned that some of these are being supplied by Hughes Family Bakers, from Shipley in West Yorkshire.

Malcolm Hughes, joint chairman, of the wholesale bakery firm, said: “We started supplying them last Friday (6 February) and it is as permanent as permanent is in this world. We are developing some products specific to Cooplands.”

Paul Davies, director of ReSolve, would not comment on the Hughes deal but said it was still in process of “finalising” its supply chain, using a “number of suppliers”.

He added: “Following the purchase of the 41 Cooplands (Doncaster) stores and 26 Bap Vans by ReSolve, the emphasis remains on stocking our stores with local product and our product range continues to be baked locally. We are obviously keen to retain our loyal customers and will continue to offer exclusive Cooplands products, including our famous Roughage loaf moving forward.

“Cooplands (Doncaster) has been a local business since 1932 and understands the importance of local support. Whilst the last few weeks have been a difficult time for employees and customers, we are now in a stronger position to provide a bigger and better product range starting with a number of promotions.
“We hope that customers will continue to support their local bakery so we can ensure that Cooplands is around for many years to come.”

Changes

The chain will now begin to offer a range of promotional offers, including a cookie and a drink for 99p, a £1.50 meal deal and it is also planning a new celebration cake range. Cooplands’ Bap Vans have also introduced new products including potato wedges, pizza and jackets.

A statement from Deloitte, which handled the administration of Cooplands, said: “The site in Doncaster which is the head office and the bakery is being marketed for sale with GVA Grimley and the plant and machinery is being marketed for sale by Edward Symmons.”

The pre-pack administration of Cooplands of Doncaster was announced a fortnight ago and resulted in the loss of 303 jobs.