Co-op enhances colleague communication and safety with latest headset technology

• Upgrade to VoCoVo’s latest S5 Pro Headset will enhance customer service and colleague connectivity for convenience retailer Co-op across all UK stores
• Following a successful pilot, rollout to replace existing headset devices commences

VoCoVo, the retail communications specialist, has announced a new five-year partnership with convenience retailer Co-op, which will see its Series 5 (S5) Pro Headsets deployed to more than 2,300 stores nationwide.

Following a successful pilot across 114 stores, full rollout commenced in February (2026) and is expected to be concluded next year, improving colleague communication and safety, simplifying day-to-day operations and enhancing the customer experience.

Co-op has worked with VoCoVo since 2017 and is upgrading its existing headset devices as part of a long-term investment in its in-store technology. The S5 Pro Headsets offer advanced capabilities to keep colleagues connected at all times, promote safety and streamline communication across the shop floor. Feedback has already been overwhelmingly positive, with almost nine in 10 colleagues preferring the new headset for its comfort, usability and sound quality.

By enabling instant communication within stores and with Co-op’s Support Centre, teams can respond more quickly to customer needs. Whether answering customer enquiries or requests for assistance, checking stock availability, managing parcel collections or handling online orders, the S5 supports colleagues with carrying out everyday tasks more efficiently.

Colleague safety remains a top priority for Co-op, with the retailer seeing retail crime reduce in 2025. Headsets were first introduced in 2017, allowing those on the shop floor to connect with colleagues or Co-op’s security operations centre when needed. The implementation of the S5 Pro Headsets builds on that foundation, supporting Co-op’s continued investment in its stores and forming part of a wider range of measures designed to ensure safe and enjoyable store environments.

David Tyas, Head of Retail Support Centre & Innovation at Co-op, “As a convenience retailer, we are always exploring new and innovative ways to make improvements to the way we work, and to make shopping quicker and easier for our customers. Following the trials, we are confident the S5 Pro Headsets will simplify everyday tasks for colleagues, strengthen communication and support our focus on ensuring a safe and enjoyable shopping environment for everybody, all while helping us deliver an even better experience for our members and customers”.

Martin Smethurst, Chief Customer Officer at VoCoVo, says: “Convenience retail plays a vital role in communities, serving as a central hub for local shoppers. That’s why we are proud to be supporting Co-op and helping to deliver seamless and exceptional experiences for customers. It’s exciting to continue collaborating on new visions together to further enhance the colleague and customer experience.”