EMPLOYEES at the chain of shops and post offices operated by the Lincolnshire Co-operative in North Lincolnshire have received a bonus in the shape of 70 per cent of their weekly wage following a boom in business.
The Co-op has reported sales in food stores and travel branches have risen in the first six months of the financial year, contributing to what officials say is a positive overall performance in challenging trading conditions.
During the half-year ending in March, like-for-like sales were up one per cent.
Total sales were £140.7 million and group trading surplus was £8.5 million – after member benefits and pension contributions.
Food sales were up 2.4 per cent during the half year.
The Lincolnshire Co-operative chief executive Ursula Lidbetter said: "Times are tough for any retailer and we've worked very hard to maintain a good performance in these challenging times.
"We have also felt the impact of rising pension costs this half-year, plus more significant cuts in the price we are paid for dispensing prescriptions and the numerous services our post offices provide.
"With all that to contend with, we are still profitable and have seen some strong performances in areas like travel, food and pharmacy."
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