The Co-op, which operates branches in Birmingham, has announced it is extending its online grocery hours, creating an additional 750,000 delivery slots from 7am in the morning, with delivery in 60 minutes or less. The extra slots will be available from more than 1,200 Co-op stores across the UK, according to the supermarket chain, which has over 2,000 sites nationwide.
Earlier openings and faster delivery
The move means customers can now have groceries delivered earlier in the day, targeting families and busy professionals who need items quickly. Gary Kisby, quick commerce trading director at Co-op, said: “Every parent knows the feeling of getting everything ready for the new school year and then realising that something is missing.”
“When life is busy enough, whether it is back to school or getting back into your usual work routine, quick online home delivery can bring forgotten lunchbox items to your door in minutes, giving families a convenient way to avoid last minute stressful situations.”
Pet insurance claims surge in August
The announcement coincides with new analysis from Co-op Insurance showing pet insurance claims rose by 44% during August 2025 compared to the previous year. One owner faced a vet bill of almost £9,000 after their pet swallowed a foreign object, the analysis found.
Despite the risks, a third (33%) of pet owners avoid taking their pet to the vet, with almost one in six (15%) stating that it’s too much hassle for their pet. Andrew Nevitt, Head of Pet at Co-op Insurance, said: "Pets can bring so much joy to our lives, offering unconditional love and companionship, but there is no doubt that bringing a pet into your home can be a challenge."
Seasonal hazards and pet care advice
Nevitt highlighted that warmer weather encourages pets to explore different environments, whether dogs on walks with their owners or cats roaming local gardens. "But with this brings risks and it’s important that pet owners remain vigilant to hidden hazards that are more prominent during the warmer weather, including grass seeds and tick bites," he said.
He added: "It’s also crucial to seek medical treatment if they feel that their pet is showing signs of distress. While injuries or illnesses can be unavoidable, having pet cover in place will give you the peace of mind that you’ll be covered if you face an unexpected visit to the vets."
The extended online grocery hours are set to provide greater convenience for Co-op customers across Birmingham and the rest of the UK, while the pet insurance data underscores the importance of vigilance and cover during the summer months.
