Co-op is the latest store to sell The Big Issue magazine

Co-op will be stocking The Big Issue magazine from Thursday as they become the latest retail giant to help us support vendors through the Covid-19 lockdown.

The Big Issue made the temporary switch into stores for the first time in its 29-year history last week when Sainsbury’s and McColl’s began selling the magazine in their shops across the UK.

Our 1,500 hard-working vendors have been off the streets since March 20, when The Big Issue took the difficult decision to stop them from selling temporarily for their own safety. As a result, vendors have seen their income slashed and The Big Issue has searched for alternative ways to sell the magazine both online and offline so we can support vendors through this difficult time.

Co-op is the latest store to partner with The Big Issue, providing our widest in-store distribution across up to 2,600 food stores in villages, towns and cities across the UK.

Just like they when they sell the magazine on the results, vendors will continue to receive 50 per cent of the sale price.

Russell Blackman, MD, The Big Issue, said: “Our income comes from street sales and without our vendors on the streets we cannot support that really need us now and in the future.

“We are delighted with the support from the Co-op, which operates at the heart of communities across the UK. The money raised will help to secure the future of the magazine and make a real difference to the lives of our vendors around the country.

“You can also buy a magazine online or subscribe for three months whilst your vendor isn’t on the street.”

Matt Hood, commercial director, Co-op, added: “Co-op has a key role to play in supporting our members, customers and colleagues, as well as those in our local communities. Inclusivity is at the heart of our culture and this is an example of us all co-operating and pulling together to help those most in need during this unprecedented time – every copy sold will make a difference.”

As well as in shops, you can also support vendors by subscribing to the magazine either digitally or in print. Head to bigissue.com/subscribe for more details. And head to The Big Issue Shop for individual back issues.