Co-op will create 1,500 jobs in 100 new food stores in 2017.
Focus will initially be on London and the South East, with five new Co-op sites in the capital by March.
New stores will also appear in Swansea, Kings Bromley in Staffordshire, Beverley in East Yorkshire, Northfields in East Lothian and Sheffield.
The £70m growth project follows a similar pattern to that seen in 2016 by the company.
Director Stuart Hookins said: “The Co-op has a clear food strategy, which is to deliver a great and convenient shopping experience for millions of members and customers on a daily basis.
“As part of this strategy, our acquisitions programme is fundamental to its success and we are actively seeking new opportunities.
“Whilst other retailers are scaling back their expansion plans, the Co-op continues to open new convenience stores. We opened 100 stores in 2016 and we plan to open hundreds more new stores over the next few years.
“We are the fastest growing non-discounter and most frequently visited. Our new stores will ensure even more shoppers can visit the Co-op.”
Business Secretary Greg Clark called the move “fantastic”, saying: “This Government is determined to create an economy that works for all, which is why our upcoming industrial strategy will focus on creating an environment where businesses big and small can thrive.”
