The Co-operative Group is planning to create 1,500 jobs at 100 new convenience stores across the country in 2017, as part of a £70m investment.
The new stores will be spread throughout London, south-east England, Yorkshire and Scotland, with five stores expected to open in London by the end of March.
Director Stuart Hookins saidm 'The Co-op has a clear food strategy, which is to deliver a great and convenient shopping experience for millions of members and customers on a daily basis.
'As part of this strategy, our acquisitions programme is fundamental to its success and we are actively seeking new opportunities.
'Whilst other retailers are scaling back their expansion plans, the Co-op continues to open new convenience stores. We opened 100 stores in 2016 and we plan to open hundreds more new stores over the next few years.
'We are the fastest growing non-discounter and most frequently visited. Our new stores will ensure even more shoppers can visit the Co-op.'