Co-op takes over Muir's Forbes store
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A VACANT Ross-shire village shop which has lain empty for more than two years will be turned into a new Co-op convenience store.
The Co-operative Group has announced that it will open a food store in Muir of Ord - in the former Forbes bakery and grocery shop which closed down in March 2009.
The WM Forbes business, also known as Bridge Stores, was an institution in the village as it had been a familiar trading name on the main street for more than 100 years.
The store on Great Northern Road will be around 2,000 sq ft and, subject to obtaining the necessary liquor licence, is expected to be open before the end of the year.
A Co-operative spokesman told the Journal the company had acquired the building and planning permission was not necessary as the premises would not be changing its use. It will undergo remodelling and rebranding before it opens its doors to customers.
He said, "The Co-operative is proud of its record of operating at the heart of many communities across Scotland. It is owned by its members, who have a say in how the business is run and who each receive a share of profits, which they can choose to keep, or to donate all or part to local good causes. We are confident a new Co-operative Food store in Muir of Ord will be an asset to the local area."
