Coln Community Stores is a Registered Society for the Benefit of the Community and a hub of community life in Coln St Aldwyns and the surrounding villages. Comprising a grocery shop, café and Post Office, the Store is owned by 250+ local shareholders.
As a community hub, our aim is to strengthen our local area and improve people’s life chances and overall quality of life. We focus on three key areas:
(1) supporting our community and local spaces,
(2) backing local businesses, and
(3) developing people’s skills and opportunities.
Our Store is highly valued as a social meeting place, a ‘warm space’ and a convenient local shop and Post Office. It provides villagers with a sense of belonging in the community and opportunities for social engagement, vital for those who are retired, disabled, alone or with small children.
We collaborate with many local organisations and charities to create a vibrant community,
We provide work experience and DofE placements along with extensive volunteering opportunities for all ages – we currently have 5 paid employees, 12 D of E and work experience juniors, and over 50 volunteers.
Our community store is only viable because of a solid volunteer base & experts who give their time and guidance for free
With links to over 25 local suppliers, we are committed to those that have supported us and look to support others that are on the beginning of their journey. We want to showcase the best of local Cotswold produce to our customers.
As a community owned business, we try to reinvest in local projects that enrich village life and support our residents. Our community decides where our funds are allocated. Between April 2025 and March 2026 we are proud to have been able to donate almost £3500 to local charities and community projects.