The Co-op is just days away from opening a £6 million distribution centre near Inverness as it looks to expand in the north of Scotland.
The group said the new facility at Inverness Airport Business Park would support existing stores in the area and allow for future expansion in the Highlands.
Launching officially on 9 August, the 12,000 sq ft Dalcross distribution centre will be able to accommodate double-decker vehicles, which the Co-op said would mean fewer journeys and reduced CO2 emissions, eliminating 1,800 road miles per day.
The retailer is set to open 18 new stores in Scotland by the end of 2018, with plans to upgrade 20 others as part of a £28m expansions and renovation plan.
Co-op logistics director Andy Perry said: 'We're thrilled to be able to launch our new site at Dalcross - it's a modern and future proofed facility which is perfectly placed to support the Co-op's ever-growing operations in Scotland.
'Our significant investment in a new distribution centre is also a symbol of our absolute commitment to serving communities in the north of Scotland, as well as a strong indicator of how well our food business is performing in this area.
'We have ambitious plans to continue to open new stores and Dalcross will ensure we can continue to serve our members and customers in the Highlands and Islands for years to come.'
