A MAJOR food retailer is making two investments in south Pembrokeshire.

The Co-operative is to open its first Welsh new store of 2016 in Tenby in May with one of its convenience outlets at The Green.

In addition, the company has confirmed that it plans to open a new Co-op convenience store in Pembroke next year.

It will be located on the former Texaco petrol filling station site in Main Street close to East End Square, replacing the current Co-op at the start of Main Street.

The Co-op is the third supermarket giant - behind Tesco and Sainsbury’s - to gain a foothold in Tenby.

The new store is housed in the former Post Office vehicle repair workshop at The Green and nearly £600,000 has been invested to create and fit out the building, said a spokesman.

Around 15 retail jobs will be created and the shop will be managed by Carole John.

It is hoped that the shop will open in mid to late May.

Added the spokesman: “It will have a focus on fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas and essentials. An in-store bakery, hot food, ATM, car parking and a Costa coffee dispenser will further enhance the in-store experience for shoppers.”

There will be offers and promotions in and around the store to mark its launch. Students in Tenby who hold a NUS Extra card will also receive a 10 per cent discount off their groceries in the store.

Oliver Huntley, area manager for The Co-op, said: “The Co-op is investing to transform and grow its convenience business and we are delighted to be opening the Co-op’s first Welsh stores this year here in Tenby.”

The company has said there will be “a significant investment” in Pembroke with the creation of its new store in the town.

Said the spokesman: “The development would rejuvenate the former petrol filling station site in Main Street, while providing a new and improved food store to serve Pembroke. Colleagues would transfer from the Co-op’s existing location to the new store.”

Both shops will have its own Community Pioneer - a member of the store team who also works to foster involvement in community activities. They will also lead the store’s support for the British Red Cross, the Co-op’s new charity partnership that will help to tackle social isolation and loneliness in Welsh communities.