Scunthorpe-based Nisa Retail, currently being acquired by Manchester-based Co-op Group, said its sales rose 17.7% to £277 million over the Christmas period — the 10 weeks to December 31, 2017.

“The strong trading performance reflected an increase of 269 stores served in the 10 week period, with substantial organic growth of 106 stores, and two new contract wins totalling 163 stores,” said Nisa.

“Nisa invested in seasonal promotions to drive member sales in the festive period and saw like for like sales increase by 1.7%, demonstrating that its existing members remain loyal and are buying more year on year.

“Nisa’s fresh range registered a pleasing overall 23.1% increase in sales demonstrating the business’s increased strength in this category.

“Of particular note were pre-pack fruit up 38.1%, pre-pack vegetables up 38.6% and ready meals up 43.7%.

“In addition to the 140 Costcutter stores that recently commenced trading with Nisa, a further 1,090 are now expected to start trading from January 2018.”

Nisa Retail CEO Arnu Misra said: “I’m pleased to report that Nisa has enjoyed good Christmas trading in the 10 weeks to 31 December.

“We successfully invested in promotions to assist our members over the key festive trading period, resulting in positive like for likes and good organic growth in store numbers.

“The total number of stores served by Nisa was also increased by two large new contract wins.

“Nisa has delivered a strong programme to help drive sales and footfall in our members’ stores, and with the support of our members, we have built a solid foundation for 2018.”