The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has partnered with One Retail, the retail sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland, as part of a major redevelopment programme at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (RD&E), Wonford.

The hospital is the largest within the Trust, where acute clinical services are based, including an Emergency Department and a number of highly acclaimed specialist units and centres.

As part of the redevelopment, One Retail will open a new Co-op franchise convenience store at RD&E this winter - helping to deliver greater convenience for everyone who uses the hospital.

The new Co-op franchise convenience store will offer a broad range of products, including food to go, meals for later, fresh groceries and everyday essentials. The enhanced offer has been designed to meet the needs of busy healthcare colleagues, patients and visitors, providing access to trusted brands and quality products.

The announcement builds on One Retail's growing partnership with the Trust, following its recent appointment at the North Devon District Hospital, in Barnstaple, to focus on the convenience shop – with further investments planned in the future.

Andy Jones, Managing Director of One Retail said:

"The introduction of a Co-op franchise convenience store at the hospital represents a significant investment - bringing a trusted high street brand and a broad range of products into an accessible, modern environment. Alongside the wider refurbishment works, this project will help transform the experience for everyone who uses the hospital.”

Chris Tidman, Deputy Chief Executive of The Royal Devon said:

“We are delighted to be bringing the new Co-op franchise convenience store to RD&E (Wonford). Co-op’s ethical principles, particularly around caring for others and social responsibility, align strongly with our Trust values and we are looking forward to partnering with them. Having another option for food and everyday essentials available to colleagues, patients and visitors provides comfort and convenience, often at a time when it is needed most. We are looking forward to being able to offer even more choice on-site at the RD&E.”