The Co-operative does the double at Produce Awards

The Co-operative became the first UK retailer to win both the main title of Overall Produce Trader of the Year award and the Multiple Retailer of the Year accolade at Fresh Produce Journal’s Re:fresh awards.

The Re:fresh awards are the produce industry's annual celebration of the achievements of the best in the business, including retail, food service, packing and wholesale sectors.

The Co-operative landed the two awards ahead of a strong field of representatives from the produce industry.

The awards were presented to The Co-operative in light of its multi-million re-fit programme, which has included the creation of an attractive and effective showcase for its produce offering, and great product ranges for maximum customer choice. The well-established ethical stance of The Co-operative, including its support for Fairtrade, British farming and the environment, was also taken into account.

Judges said of The Co-operative in the Multiple Retailer of the Year category: “This stunning entry highlights The Co-operative’s commitment to its supply base, and its commitment to its customers with the customer offer being ‘re-invigorated, re-branded and refreshed’ ”.

David Messom, Director of Food Retail Trading at The Co-operative, commented: “We are delighted to have won these prestigious awards, which recognise that our fresh produce offering is second to none, thanks to the extraordinary efforts of all the teams involved.

“Fresh produce is important to our customers and a fundamental part of delivering
The Co-operative 'Good with Food' strategy.”

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