When supermarket chains COOP and PLUS announced their merger in 2022, it marked the start of a large-scale renovation project for the Dutch retailer. More than 200 COOP stores had to be converted to the PLUS formula quickly, efficiently and with minimal disruption. It was a complex situation involving different store formats, entrepreneurs and suppliers. That's why PLUS needed a partner who could perform under pressure while remaining flexible in its solutions.
EFFICIENCY UNDER PRESSURE
The challenge lay not just in the scale, but also in the complexity. Each store had its own layout and entrepreneurs' preferences. PLUS aimed to streamline operations while maintaining brand consistency. The transformation had to be fast, flexible and future-proof. Striking the right balance between cost efficiency and maintaining PLUS quality was also an essential part of the transformation strategy.
‘The pressure was high. There were many factors to take into account, and we wanted to achieve results quickly,’ says Ronald van der Plaat, Innovation Team Manager, Construction and Shop Fitting Department at PLUS.
Pan Oston was already a preferred supplier for both COOP and PLUS and emerged as the obvious choice. The Raalte-based company is known for its flexibility, proactive approach and long-term partnerships. In addition, Pan Oston has distinguished itself in the past by actively contributing ideas based on customer requirements and realising a wide range of suitable concepts.
“Cheaper furniture can always be found, but building a sustainable partnership is what really matters” – Ronald van der Plaat, Innovation Team Manager, Construction and Shop Fitting Department at PLUS.
To meet the diverse needs of each store and ensure a smooth, scalable rollout, Pan Oston delivered a comprehensive range of solutions that combine efficiency, sustainability and operational precision. From smart re-use strategies to rapid installation techniques, every aspect was designed to minimise disruption, avoid unnecessary costs and maximise long-term value, while also minimising environmental impact. The following core elements formed the basis of the approach:
“At Pan Oston, it's not just about supplying products. For us, it's important to help customers make the right choice for their checkout area and build a long-term relationship. It is why we live by the motto: Your success is our success! – Ben Bosch, Senior Account Manager
An important element in the success of the renovation programme was the smart and sustainable logistics strategy. Instead of disposing of dismantled COOP furniture, a rotation pool was created. Furniture removed from one store was stored, checked, converted to PLUS standards and redeployed at other locations. This not only reduced waste, but also enabled faster lead times and significant cost savings for the entire operation. In addition to being efficient, this approach also has a direct impact on PLUS's sustainability goals. Reuse greatly reduced the amount of waste and significantly reduced CO₂ emissions, without compromising on quality or appearance.
‘It's remarkable how a small change can have such a big impact on your carbon footprint.’ Ronald van der Plaat, Innovation Team Manager, Construction and Shop Fitting Department at PLUS.
In addition, the portfolio was critically reviewed and standardised. Previously, left-hand and right-hand variants of self-checkouts (SCOs) were supplied. This led to duplicate stocks, errors in delivery and installation, and additional exchange actions. By switching to a single universal SCO model, the process became more predictable and efficient, with a lower margin of error, simplified logistics and better implementation in all stores.
CONCEPTS THAT MAKE SENSE
The chosen solutions were implemented in three logical delivery strategies. This approach allowed each location to be converted in a way that closely matched operational needs, budget and planning, without compromising PLUS's quality standards or visual identity.
1. On-site conversion
In shops where complete replacement was not necessary (or desirable), targeted adjustments were made on site. New front panels were installed directly in the shop and existing COOP self-scan checkouts were fitted with PLUS-compliant stickers and finishes. This approach offered a quick and practical way to align with the PLUS visual identity.
2. Refurbishment of COOP checkouts & self-checkouts
Where possible, existing COOP furniture was given a new lease of life through renovation. Checkout were fitted with new front panels that match the PLUS visual identity, and SCOs were modified. In addition, preventive maintenance was carried out, such as replacing worn parts, to guarantee reliability and extend the service life of the units. This strategy ensured that additional service visits could be avoided, enabling PLUS to use resources efficiently and sustainably.
3. New solutions
At some locations, Pan Oston supplied completely new checkout furniture, designed to meet the latest PLUS standards. These installations were fully customised and pre-equipped with hardware, allowing them to be implemented on a plug-and-play basis — often within a single day or during normal shop operations.
RESULTS THAT MATTER
ABOUT PLUS
PLUS has more than 440 supermarkets, most of which are run by independent entrepreneurs. With a turnover of €4.5 billion and a market share of more than 9%, PLUS is the third largest supermarket chain in the Netherlands. The service office is located in Utrecht. The shops receive their groceries from the distribution centres in Oss and Gieten. Fresh products are delivered from the distribution centre in Barendrecht. Together, the 37,000 employees ensure good food, for the neighbourhood and for each other.
MORE ABOUT PAN OSTON'S CHECKOUT SOLUTIONS
Pan Oston's checkout solutions are suitable for many different retail concepts thanks to their modular and flexible design. Are you curious to know what they can do for your shop? Our team of specialists is ready to help you think about and optimise all customer interactions in your shop.
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