A HAMPSHIRE supermarket is to undergo a £810,000 makeover.

The Hedge End Co-op on Lower Northam Road is set to undergo a total refit in a bid to focus on fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas and essentials.

The shop will also have an increased food-to-go section and new self-service check outs aimed at improving service times.

The works are expected to start at the end of this week and are part of Co-op’s investment programme aimed at improving shopping experience and updating the Co-op logo.

Nick Bailey, store manager, said: “We are delighted to be making such a significant investment in our Hedge End store and are looking forward to re-launching and serving the community. “The Co-op is moving forward with a clear purpose and momentum and our ambition is to establish the store as a local hub, a real asset for the community. It is an exciting time for the whole team.”

The new look will also aim to bring a funding boost for local community groups through its new membership scheme.

Members will receive a five per cent reward on purchases of own-branded products and services, with a further one per cent going directly to local causes in a bid to make a difference in the community. Several local charities and groups are set to benefit from the scheme, including the Teenage Drop-In Centre, Hedge End Youth and Community Association and Botley Market Hall.

Tony Davies, area manager for the Co-op, said: “We are also giving back to the community. Our members have an opportunity to make a difference locally. Simply by using their membership card when they shop with us they will raise much needed funding for organisations who contribute to improving local life.

“The return to our ‘clover leaf’ design logo – first used in the 1960’s - aims to re-establish the Co-op as a centre for the community, and we want shoppers to know that they can become a co-owner and member of their Co-op.”

The works are expected to last six weeks but a Co-op spokeswoman confirmed that the store will not be closed to the public as the works will be carried out outside of trading hours to keep disruption at minimum. An official opening ceremony is expected to will take place on October 13.