Central England Co-op has announced a 4.1% rise in like-for-like sales across its convenience stores in the three-week Christmas period ending 5 January.

The Society revealed a 1.5% rise in like-for-like sales throughout the Society over the festive period, with Christmas Eve generating its highest ever turnover day of 2018 (£3.8m).

The Christmas period saw strong performance across confectionery, mince pies and prosecco, while Central England Co-op customers donated over 75,000 items as part of the Society’s annual food bank appeal.

Central England Co-operative chief executive, Martyn Cheatle, said: “The whole team at Central England Co-operative are proud of these strong sales figures.

“Despite the tough environment we trade in, our expert planning, great products and the dedication and hard work of our colleagues have helped deliver these results. We would also like to say a massive thank you to anyone who supported our Christmas Food Bank Appeal as this helped make a major difference to people in need across our trading area.”