The Midcounties Co-operative, which operates 225 convenience stores across central and southern England, saw its like-for-like food sales grow by a bumper 7.7% in the three weeks to 2 January. The society stated that its performance was boosted by an enhanced seasonal range that included a record number of locally-sourced products.
In response to the pandemic, Midcounties increased its partnerships with local suppliers to more than 200 businesses. During the festive period, sales of locally sourced Christmas products surged up 60% on a like-for-like basis. Total sales of locally sourced products, such as cheeses and wine, exceeded £15m in 2020, compared to around £10m the year before.
Rupert Newman, Co-op Midcounties’ Chief Retail Officer, said: “The performance of our locally sourced ranges was a particular highlight in December and underlines our customers’ desire to shop local, particularly in light of the difficulties many local suppliers have faced throughout the pandemic.
“Our customers understand that by buying locally and ethically-sourced food and drink products they can reduce food miles, know exactly where their food comes from and how it has been produced, and support their local communities.”
