UK convenience retailer Co-op has combined its wholesale and franchise operations under managing director Katie Secretan, streamlining support for independent retailers. The restructuring follows a doubling of new wholesale contract value to GBP284 million by September, from GBP142 million in H1. Co-op Wholesale has opened 223 outlets this year, while its forecourt network has expanded from 400 to 770 locations over two years. (The Grocer)