A major UK supermarket chain has announced it is closing a branch in two months.

According to a spokesperson, the Co-Op’s Minehead store is closing due to a failed planning application. Redevelopment plans for the building included a Co-op store and 35 new flats.

But four months ago, planning officials at Somerset Council rejected the application, saying it “failed to reflect the character of the town centre” and it is now slated to close in the middle of June.

The spokesperson added: “Co-op remains committed to serving the Minehead community through our Alcombe store. Our priority is to fully support The Avenue store colleagues, and we would like to thank the community for its continued support for the Co-op in the town.”

This comes after Co-op announced it is aiming to expand its stores in 2026, including a proposed takeover of Southern Co-op. If the deal is approved, hundreds of new food shops and funeral directors could open nationwide.

In January, Co-op confirmed it would open 18 new stores in the first quarter of 2026, including new stores and stores re-opening following investment.

Co-op says it is focused on creating stores that act as local hubs, offering “quality and value alongside added services”. Stores offer coffee, bakery, Fairtrade products, fresh and healthy produce and added services include payment services, parcel collection and returns.

Kate McCrae, Co-op operations director, said: “We’re focussed on creating local stores which are more than just a shop – they are a hub locally that contribute to local life and conveniently meet the needs of communities.

“Our stores have a focus on quality products and value for our members and customers, with a great range of deals and promotions on the items shoppers want to buy.

“I’m delighted to see our first new store of 2026 open in Oxfordshire, as we start 2026 with an active store opening programme to increase and enhance Co-op’s presence in high streets and communities all across the UK.”