http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News/RSS.aspxChelmsford Star Latest News FeedChelmsford Star Co-operative Society Ltd.5Tuchka.Dnn.AnnouncementSyndication, www.tuchka.info<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Former President Unsuccessful in Society Elections - 02 May 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">The former President of Chelmsford Star who resigned as a Director in December last year, prior to a resolution to dismiss him from office has been unsuccessful in his attempt to return to elective office.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Maurice Austin stood for election to the Society’s Board of Directors, the Membership Committee and the Members’ Council; in each case he was the lowest polling candidate.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> The Society’s election results are as follows:</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> <b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Board of Directors</span></b><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> <b>Successful</b></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs Pauline Green</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs Janice Martin</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr Michael Whalley</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr Roger Simons</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> <b>Unsuccessful</b></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr Chris Henton</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr Maurice Austin</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Mrs Martin and Mr Simons are former Directors of the Society, Mrs Green and Mr Whalley are sitting Directors who were re-elected.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> <b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Membership Committee</span></b></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> <b>Successful</b></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr C Henton</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> <b>Unsuccessful</b></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs J Adams</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs F Mockett</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs P Green</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr M Austin</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Mr Henton was Chair of the Society’s Members’ Council.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Members’ Council</span></b></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> <b>Successful</b></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs S Sullivan</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs J Milbank</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr L Hughes</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr M Wallace</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Ms L Bowser</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr J Knott</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> <b>Unsuccessful</b></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs J Bliss</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs F Mockett</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mrs P Green</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr G Martin</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">          Mr M Austin</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Commenting on the election and the Society’s AGM, President Lance Gardner stated, <i>“The very serious and damaging allegations made by two former Directors most certainly galvanised our members to express their views by voting in our election and by attending our AGM”</i>.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> A recent comment in the Co-operative News from former Director, Mr C Fegan, that Chelmsford Star was not worthy to be called a Co-operative was not well received and subject to a question from former long serving President, Terry Haggerty.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Numbers voting in the Society’s elections increased by 53% when compared to last year.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Commenting on the outcome of the elections, President Lance Gardner further stated, <i>“I am delighted that our two serving Directors were re-elected because their experience is invaluable.  I am also delighted to welcome Jan Martin (a former Vice President) and Roger Simons back onto the Board.  We have an excellent team which in conjunction with our first class Senior Executive will work harmoniously to take Chelmsford Star forward”</i>.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">As the ICA statement on co-operative identity states <i>“Men and women serving as elected representatives are accountable to the membership, our members have been unequivocal in supporting the Board and standing ‘four square’ behind the values of co-operation”</i>.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> The Society is particularly pleased that Leo Hughes, a member of the Society’s Youth Council was elected to the Society’s Members’ Council.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> The Society’s election process was managed for the first time by Electoral Reform Services and was warmly approved by members attending the AGM.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Prior to the start of the AGM, the President, on behalf of the Board, made the following statement in respect of Mr C Fegan.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> <i>“At a meeting of the Society’s Board of Directors held this morning, Mr C Fegan was, by a unanimous vote, expelled from membership of Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society.</i></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"><i>This decision was only taken after your Directors gave the most careful consideration to a significant number of complaints against Mr Fegan by another member, all of which were upheld.</i></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"><i>Mr Fegan’s rights under the Society’s Rules were fully respected and he did attend today’s meeting.</i></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"><i>At all stages of the process, the Directors were advised by our lawyers, Anthony Collins LLP and Co-operatives^UK.”</i></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">The statement was received by members without any comment being made from the floor.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">The Society’s Directors’ Report and Financial Statements were approved unanimously and without dissent.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">The Society is now looking forward to concentrating on the challenges that it, along with all other retailers, will face in 2012.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx41Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Chelmsford Star and Bike Aid Africa off to a flying start. - 18 April 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">Just 48 hours after launching its venture with Bike Aid Africa, over 100 bicycles have already been donated.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Michael Whalley, Chair of the Society’s Membership Committee commented, <i>“This is a really encouraging start, the bicycles will make a real difference to people in Africa, for many just getting water can take a whole day, these bicycles really are life transforming”</i>.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Anyone with a bicycle, please phone 01245 216914.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx40Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Sales continue to soar at Chelmsford Star - 18 April 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">After 11 weeks of trading, gross takings on a “like for like” basis have grown by a remarkable 7.40% which equates to a weekly average growth of £117,259 a week.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> In contrast to many other retailers, the Society enjoyed a successful Easter.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Commenting on the figures, Chief Executive Officer stated, <i>“Last year was a record year for us, so to have grown by 7.40% is quite remarkable, but what really pleases me is that all our businesses are contributing to our growth, I pay tribute to our employees because it’s their service which makes the difference”</i>.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx39Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Co-operative Energy to participate in big switch - 05 April 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: center; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><b>UK’s newest energy supplier first to publicly declare participation in energy auction </b></p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"> </p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Co-operative Energy has become the first energy supplier to publicly declare its participation in the Big Switch, a collective switching campaign organised by the consumer body Which? and the campaigning body 38 Degrees. </p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Which? is asking energy suppliers to bid in an auction to secure the opportunity to supply consumers with electricity and gas at a market leading price. Following a number of revisions to the terms of the Big Switch based on constructive feedback from Co-operative Energy , the ethical energy supplier has confirmed its involvement in the auction and is also urging other energy suppliers to put customers first. </p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Nigel Mason of Co-operative Energy said: “Following ongoing negotiations with Which? we are delighted to see that they have listened to our advice and decided to allow suppliers to bid an existing tariff. This has prompted us to declare our interest in the campaign and formally take part in the auction. We believe that this is now a much fairer process and more in tune with the way we deal with customers. We intend to use the Big Switch to publicise the co-operative model of collective buying and demonstrate its effectiveness.”</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">“In declaring our involvement we are also challenging other energy suppliers to follow our lead.  All energy suppliers should treat their existing customers fairly and not offer new customers a better deal than their loyal customers.  Our participation in the Big Switch is a clear demonstration of this and will ensure that all customers are getting the same deal and no preferential treatment. We are writing to all of our customers to inform them of our intention to take part in the Big Switch.”</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Co-operative Energy launched in May 2011 with the intention of delivering the benefits of collective buying to customers, such as consistently lower energy prices and a greater emphasis on renewable energy. </p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx38Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Chelmsford Star links up with Bike Aid Africa - 03 April 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">Chelmsford Star has agreed to support Essex based charity Bike Aid Africa.  The charity takes in bicycles in whatever condition, refurbishes them and ships them to Africa.  Over the past ten years or so, an amazing 40,000 bicycles have been sent out.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Commenting on this latest initiative, Chief Executive Officer, Tony Gudgeon stated, <i>“2012 is the UN International Year of Co-operatives and our Directors wanted us to have an international dimension to our work.  Giving someone a bicycle in Africa can be life transforming especially for example if they need to travel ten miles a day to get water”</i>.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Anyone with a bicycle should contact Chelmsford 01245 216914.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx37Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">New outlet for Canvey Island - 03 April 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">Chelmsford Star is set to open a new shop in Knightswick Parade, Canvey Island.  The shop will sell beds, bedroom furniture, linens and some housewares and is set to open around the end of May.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Commenting on this initiative, Chief Executive Officer, Tony Gudgeon stated, <i>“We believe Canvey Island is an excellent location and we are very hopeful that this new venture will be well received”</i>.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx36Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Sales continue to soar at Chelmsford Star - 03 April 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">“Like for like” sales in week 9, week ending 31^st March 2012 grew by a massive 9.37% taking the accumulative rate of “like for like” growth of 7.66%.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Chief Executive Officer, Tony Gudgeon stated <i>“we were helped by good weather in the week but the really pleasing aspect is that we are seeing real growth across all our business with Food, Travel and Funerals being particularly good”</i>.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx35Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Local School Co-operates with store opening. - 21 March 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Children from Scargil Junior School, in Mungo Park Road, Rainham, leapt to the assistance of Essex-based Co-operative Society, Chelmsford Star, recently. The Society, which owns nearly forty food-stores, plus travel agents, funeral homes and department stores across Essex,  was launching its first shop in this area during Fairtrade Fortnight, and they needed some locals to help them! </b></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Ten children from the school, plus teacher Mrs Gregory, came to help with the ribbon cutting, and learnt a little about Fairtrade at the same time.</b></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><b>The store, which previously had been a Nisa, has received an update both inside and out, and is proving very popular with the locals – especially when goodie bags were handed out to its first fifty customers to highlight Fairtrade Fortnight.</b></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Store manager Kevin Banham said;</b></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"><i>“We are already receiving a lot of positive comments. People like having a large range to choose from when shopping local - it saves on petrol!”</i></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><b>The store was launched on 9^th March at 10am.</b></p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx30Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Election fever at Chelmsford Star - 21 March 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">Interest in becoming involved in the governance of Chelmsford Star has increased following its recent “Meet the Directors” evening.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> A total of 22 candidates have submitted nominations for eleven vacancies.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Six candidates are chasing four vacancies on the Board of Directors where two sitting Directors, Michael Whalley and Pauline Green are seeking re-election.  One vacancy on the Membership Committee will be contested by five candidates and eleven candidates will be contesting six vacancies on the Society’s Members’ Council.  Amongst the candidates for the Council is Leo Hughes, a member of the recently formed Youth Council.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Former Society President, Maurice Austin, who resigned in December is seeking election to the Board, Membership Committee and the Council.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> Society Secretary, Roger Myddelton stated, <i>“It is very rewarding to see that all the hard work of our membership function is paying off, we wish the best of luck to each candidate”</i>.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx32Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Expert gives Titanic talk to raise funds for Families in Focus(Essex) - 21 March 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">An ex Royal Navy submariner and Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents will reveal his unique angle on the loss of the SS Titanic at a talk on 18 April. This will mark the centenary anniversary of the sinking of probably the most famous ship in history, to raise funds for Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society’s charity of the year, Families InFocus (Essex).</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Rear Admiral John Lang spent 36 years serving in both the Merchant and Royal Navies before becoming head of the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch.   Fascinated by the Titanic story, John felt stimulated to write his own view on of the tragedy from a unique accident investigator’s perspective, to be published at the end of July 2012.</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">The book compares the original accident report from 100 years ago with Johns modern day version based on the same facts. The original report stated that the Titanic sank due to a collision with an iceberg brought about by excessive speed; however Johns investigation led him to conclude that a different chain of events extending back over several years caused the accident. </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">During the talk he identifies the single action that triggered the disaster, the three crucial causes and the many underlying reasons that contributed to the best known marine accident in history. Although there may well be no surprises the conclusions he draws have never been presented in this way before. </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">This illustrated talk to be held at the quadrant department store in Chelmsford, is not only entertaining but is an absolute must for any Titanic fan. </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Doors open 6.45pm for a 7.15pm and tickets cost £7.50 (including a glass of wine) and are available from the quadrants customer services or can be reserved on events@chelmsfordstar.coop. </p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx31Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Flying start for Chelmsford Star - 21 March 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">Trading in the first seven weeks of the 2012/13 financial year has been buoyant for Chelmsford Star.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Gross takings on a “like for like” basis have, in the seven weeks up to 17^th March 2012, grown by £848,044 or 7.67%.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">The Society’s Food business has continued its remarkable progress of recent years by again recording industry leading levels of “like for like” growth; as at 17^th March Food is up 7.24%.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">The Society’s Travel business is up “like for like” 52% and Funerals up 10.2%, again “like for like”.  The Society’s Departmental Store business has a small decrease of 0.56% but is showing signs of improvement.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Commenting on the figures, Chief Executive Officer, Tony Gudgeon stated, <i>“Every year is a fresh challenge and I’ve no doubt that 2012 is going to be tough.  To have got off to such a good start is very encouraging and a tribute to our management and colleagues in stores, but of course it’s early days and we will need to stay totally focused”</i>.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx34Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">New records set at Chelmsford Star - 21 March 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">Essex based Chelmsford Star has announced all time record results for its financial year ending 28^th January 2012, despite the dire state of the economy.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Gross takings grew ahead of the rate of inflation for the 14^th successive year to reach £85,749,244, an increase of £7,009,786 or 8.9%.  Gross takings on a “like for like” basis grew 4.4% aided by a remarkable performance in Food which increased by 6.7%.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Trading profit at £2,121,603 has increased by £54,127 or 2.6%, and a sum of £903,643 was added to reserves.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">Commenting on the results, Chief Executive Officer, Tony Gudgeon stated, <i>“We are pleased to have shown resilience and delivered such a good result in what has been an awful year for retailers.  All our businesses have played their part, but I consider our Food performance to have been absolutely outstanding for the third year running”</i>.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx33Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Unique Banana Split offers a yellow-print on feeding the world. - 06 March 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="line-height: 150%;">In a move to mark this year’s Fairtrade Fortnight, The Co-operative has switched all its bananas to 100% Fairtrade. Bananas are the most popular fruit in the UK, and The Co-operative sells a staggering 230 million bananas a year - enough to circle the globe.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%;">The Co-operative, which was the first to launch Fairtrade bananas into the UK, now sees all its bananas supplied by fellow co-operatives, 23 of which are made up of thousands of smallholders from countries including Peru, Colombia and Ecuador.  The move demonstrates the retailer’s unrivalled commitment to small-scale growers.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;">As part of its groundbreaking Ethical Plan, The Co-operative has pledged that if products can be labelled as Fairtrade, they will be, and by the end of 2013, the retailer hopes to be 90% towards this target. </p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;">Chief Executive Officer of Local Essex Co-operative Chelmsford Star said;</p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;"><i> "Despite the economic downturn, Fairtrade sales in the UK continue to grow, and support for Fairtrade from our own customers and members is as strong as ever.  The switch to 100% Fairtrade bananas in more than 4,000 Co-operative stores in the UK including Chelmsford Star is a demonstration of this commitment to Fairtrade, co-operatives and small-scale farmers.</i></p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;"><i></i></p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;"><i>"However, having been instrumental in bringing Fairtrade into the mainstream, we recognise the unique role we can play as a co-operative in going beyond Fairtrade and increasing support for our producers to tackle global poverty.</i></p> <p style="line-height: 150%;"><i> “Over a million farmers are now involved in Fairtrade, largely via co-operatives.  The encouragement of smallholder farmers – many of whom are women – offers the best route to sustainably feed the two billion extra people who will live on Earth by 2050.”</i><i></i></p> <p style="text-autospace: ideograph-numeric;"><i>“In the run-up to the UN Conference on Sustainable Development in June 2012, we call on the UK Government to champion the importance of increasing global food production in a sustainable and equitable way, and the crucial role that smallholder</i> <i>farmers and co-operatives can play. We ask that the UK promotes increased investment in sustainable smallholder agriculture in order to guarantee livelihoods for the poorest farmers, especially women.”</i></p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;">The Fairtrade bananas are sourced from a number of countries including Panama, where the retailer stepped in to support the Coobana co-operative of banana workers achieve Fairtrade certification.    </p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;"> </p> <p>Furthermore, as part of its wider commitment to tackling global poverty, the Group is delivering a unique range of projects and initiatives that go beyond Fairtrade.</p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;">In Panama, for example, as well as a guaranteed price for their bananas and the Fairtrade premium, the co-operative is receiving an additional £260,000 from the retailer over a three-year period to deliver clean water, sanitation and fuel-efficient stoves, as well as co-operative development. </p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;"> </p> <p style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: ;">At the same time, a unique project created by The Co-operative and supplier Finlay Beverages and involving 11,000 tea smallholders in Kenya has come to fruition - with tea from the Kibagenge project being included in The Co-operative's 99 Tea for the first time.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx29Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Chelmsford Star Co-op spreads the Fairtrade word! - 15 February 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: justify;">Local Co-operative Chelmsford Star will be running an evening event in its quadrant department store to promote Fair-trade Fortnight on Thursday 8^rd March from 6.45pm. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The ticketed event aims to give attendees a greater understanding of Fair-trade. As such there will be a presentation by Joseph Cheruiyot from the Kibagenge Co-operative in Kenya, soon to be suppliers to the Co-operative 99 tea brand.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">There will also be a launch of a Fairtrade king size quilt when all local quilting organisations will be encouraged to play their part.  The Society plans to have the quilt completed in readiness to display from ‘International Day of Co-operatives’ on 7^th July, 2012. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Tickets are £5 each and include a Fairtrade buffet. They are available from Customer Services on the first floor at quadrant, 220 Moulsham Street or email <a href="mailto:events@chelmsfordstar.coop">events@chelmsfordstar.coop</a> to reserve a space.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx28Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Co-operative Energy triumphs at consumer Moneyfacts awards 2012 - 01 February 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Co-operative Energy has scooped the Best Energy Provider Award at the Consumer Moneyfacts Awards 2012. The new energy provider picked up the award following its pledge to offer transparency on profits, clear bills and a simple tariff for new and loyal customers. </p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">The ethical energy provider was voted the best energy provider by consumers via an online survey, ahead of a shortlist of seven contenders including Big Six, EDF, e.on and npower.</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">The aim of the awards is to give the UK’s millions of customers a voice and a chance to reflect how they feel about the range of products available to them.</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">On receiving the award, Ramsay Dunning, Group General Manager at Co-operative Energy said: “I am very proud to collect this prestigious award on behalf of the team at Co-operative Energy. It means even more to us that we’ve being recognised by customers for offering a fair and honest price and service. </p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">“As a membership organisation our purpose is to serve our customers and we are delighted to have been recognised for that.” </p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">The awards were held at The HAC, London on Thursday 26^th January 2012. </p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx27Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Launch of International Year of the Co-operative. - 11 January 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Local Co-operative Society Chelmsford Star is preparing for a year of celebration as it takes part in the International Year of Co-operatives 2012 which launches on 12^th January, 2012. </b></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Owned by its members, run on behalf of its members, Chelmsford Star Co-operative will be joining 5,450 other co-operative enterprises across the UK to celebrate the International Year. It plans to mark the launch day with a photo opportunity including members of its Board, Councillor Robert Shepherd, Mayor of Chelmsford and Town Crier, Tony Appleton at 10am at its Duke Street convenience food store. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Designated by the United Nations, the year will demonstrate how, through the co-operative values and principles, ‘Co-operative Enterprises Build a Better World’. From farmers to football teams, healthcare to housing providers, photographers to food growers, Chelmsford Star a retail co-operative, is one of 1.4 million co-operative enterprises in the 98 countries across the world taking part in the 2012 International Year of Co-operatives. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Lance Gardner, President at Chelmsford Star comments,</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><i> “As a co-operative we’re owned by our members and not shareholders.  We’re proud to belong to the local Essex business community and to be part of a global community of co-operative businesses. The UK is the birthplace of the global co-operative movement and we certainly hope that our activity will highlight how we are playing our part in building a better world.</i></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK comments,</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><i>“This is an opportunity for every co-operative, from locally owned community shops to national brands in the UK co-operative sector, to shine in the global spotlight. And demonstrate just how co-operatives here in the UK pursue economic visibility and social responsibility.”</i></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">For more information on the event contact Vanessa Howard on 01245 216911 or email vanessa@chelmsfordstar.coop</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">For more information on United Nations 2012 International Year of Co-operatives visit the ICA at <a href="http://www.ica.coop/">www.2012.coop</a> or the United Nations at http://social.un.org/coopsyear.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx25Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Chelmsford Star looks for new charity of the year. - 11 January 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: justify;">Local Co-operative Society, Chelmsford Star has embarked on its annual search for its next ‘Charity of the Year’ for 2012/13.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Lance Gardner, Society President said;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><i>‘The Board of Directors are currently looking for local registered charities to put themselves forward as potential candidates backed up with a written statement on what the funds are required for.</i><i> They compile a short list in mid-February and then invite the 800 members of the Society’s employees to vote on their preference.</i></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The name of the charity with the most votes is declared at the annual general meeting at the end of April. After which the new charity and Society work together on fund raising ideas for the year, including collecting tins featured at over 150 till points as well as sponsored events and raffles.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">As the Society trades from 45 branches from Braintree to Southend-on-sea, prospective candidates should be able to demonstrate that their cause would be recognised by customers across all stores. Charities are encouraged to make contact with the Society’s stores with assistance and support in all major initiatives as and when required. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Chelmsford Star is now more than half way through with this year’s nomination, Families InFocus (Essex).</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Rachel Ellis Director at Families InFocus (Essex) said;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><i>“We were delighted to have been chosen as Chelmsford Star’s ‘Charity of the Year’. The money raised will make a huge difference by enabling us to reach out to many more families who since the down turn in the economy have approached us for help.” </i></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In 2010/2011 the Society raised just under £35 000 for Macmillan Cancer Support which was apparently the largest individual donation made in Essex.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Interested parties should email Lance Gardner at <a href="mailto:coty@chelmsfordstar.coop">coty@chelmsfordstar.coop</a> or write to him at 220 Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 OLS by 31^st January 2012.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx24Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Braintree 'quadrant' has a bumper xmas. - 11 January 2012</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Local Co-operative Society Chelmsford Star, reported bumper xmas sales in its Braintree quadrant department store despite the general high street doom and gloom.</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Chief Executive Officer, Tony Gudgeon commented;</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><i>“The store sales have been gradually building momentum during December and we were delighted to see an uplift of footfall in the week leading into xmas of over 23%.   As a consequence the store achieved its best trading week of the year. This would indicate that many Braintree people chose to shop local and we had a good mix of what they wanted”.</i></p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Key areas in particular were toys, young fashion and footwear. The store houses the beleaguered footwear brand Barratt’s which went into administration prior to Xmas. As a new buyer hasn’t been found, the company plans to close many stores including concessions (store within stores). However, because of the continued excellent sales performance, the Barratt’s department in quadrant will be one of the units that will continue to trade, which was welcomed relief for all.</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Sales in the store post xmas have continued to be buoyant as it moved into its annual winter sale with beds and furniture being the star performers.</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">The Society operates another quadrant department store in Chelmsford which also reported good sales but saw less footfall due to shoppers choosing to visit other shopping centres such as Westfields in Stratford.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx23Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Star Co-operative helps the Surviving Winter Appeal - 28 December 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Chelmsford Star Co-operative has joined forces with Essex Community Foundation to promote the ‘Surviving Winter Appeal 2011’. </p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><img alt="" style="width: 400px; height: 300px; vertical-align: middle;" src="/Portals/0/surviving%20winter.jpg" /></p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Staying warm and healthy in our cold winter is something most of us take for granted. However, around 700 people in Essex die each year because of cold weather and poor living conditions. Many elderly and vulnerable people struggle to stretch their winter payments whilst others have far less of a need for them. Essex Community Foundation acts as a conduit between the two, to enable a fairer distribution of funds to those who desperately need it.</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Marketing and PR Manager Vanessa Howard said,</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><i>‘The figure of 700 is shocking; by promoting the scheme through our stores we hope that a greater awareness can go some way to making a real difference’.   </i></p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">The scheme, endorsed by both Sir Terry Wogan and Sir David Jason, is growing in momentum. For those interested in donating visit <a href="http://www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk" target="_blank">www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk</a>. </p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx22Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Changes at the top for Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society Ltd - 28 December 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%;">Essex based Co-operative Society, Chelmsford Star, which has enjoyed strong trading results over recent years, has announced changes in leadership at Board level.</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%;"><i></i></p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%;">Lance Gardner has been appointed President and Pauline Dodd, Vice President.  Both will serve until the Society’s next elections which will be in April 2012.</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%;">The Board is confident that these changes will enable the Society to meet the undoubted challenges 2012 will bring and will serve well the interest of members.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx20Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Essex Rotarians 'get together' in support of Families InFoucs(Essex) - 28 December 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: left;">Over 200 Rotarians and a number of local businesses came together recently at the ‘quadrant’ department store in Chelmsford at an exclusive shopping event in aid of Families InFocus(Essex).  </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;">During the evening Stylist Margaret Flemming presented style guides sessions for both ladies and men. QVC chef Malcolm Harradine demonstrated Christmas recipes. Local artists and jewellery makers also had the opportunity to display their goods and all enjoyed an excellent buffet provided by the in house restaurant, Brambles.</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;">Society Marketing Manager, Vanessa Howard said;</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"><i>‘This is our fourth event for the local Rotary Clubs and is not only a great networking opportunity but at the same time raises funds for a good cause.’ </i></p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"><i></i></p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;">All proceeds for the event including money raised from a magnificent raffle of over £500 worth of prizes enabled the quadrant and the Rotary Clubs to hand over a cheque to Families InFocus(Essex) for just over £1200!</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx19Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">A Remembrance Evening to Remember - 28 December 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;">Chelmsford Star Co-operative Funeral Services held its fourth evening remembrance service at its branch in Great Baddow on Friday 9th December 2011.</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;">Over 80 people braved the cold weather and turned up to hear Piper Trevor Sharp start the event followed by the blessing of the Christmas tree by Reverend Carol Smith of St Lukes Moulsham Lodge, a seasonal poem read by humanist Chris Cornell, and a very moving Last Post performed by the Royal British Legion standard bearers. The event climaxed with the haunting voice of teenager Chelsea Claydon singing ‘Amazing Grace’, bringing a tear to many an eye.</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;">The evening finished with personal remembrance messages placed on a beautifully decorated Christmas tree followed by mince pies and mulled wine.</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;">Funeral Operations Manager, Craig Jackson said;</p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"><i>“It was a fantastic turnout and many people mentioned how touched they were by the service. I would like to thank all who gave their time into making the evening so special.”</i></p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx21Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">1940's event in quadrant Braintree is a roaring success - 21 December 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="text-align: justify; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Chelmsford Star Co-operative's ‘quadrant’ department store in Braintree recently held a 1940’s evening in order to raise funds for its charity of the year, Families InFocus(Essex). </p> <p style="text-align: justify; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Over 200 enjoyed a whole host of entertainment including Barry Smith and his silver Bird, Martine and A2 Jive dancers, 40’s hair and makeup, a 1940’s style fashion show, and 1940's nibbles including spam sandwiches.</p> <p style="text-align: justify; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">The Braintree and District Museum brought an array of war time ephemera and ex fighter pilot; Frank Parker took many through his special photo album of memories and mementos.</p> <p style="text-align: justify; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Commenting on the evening Marketing Manager Vanessa Howard said;</p> <p style="text-align: justify; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><i>“We were delighted at the turn out especially as so many made the effort to dress up in the 40’s style which just shows the strength of feeling people have about this period.”</i></p> <p style="text-align: justify; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Ken Crisell won a flight on an original Tiger Moth, the star prize in the charity raffle which along with the ticket sales raised over £1300 for the charity.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx16Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">UK's 2012 International Year of Co-operatives website goes live. - 21 December 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="margin: 12pt 0cm 0pt; background: white;">Co-operatives UK has launched the UK's website for the United Nations International Year of Co-operatives 2012 - <a href="http://www.uk.coop/2012" title="Visit the Co-operatives UK 2012 website">www.uk.coop/2012.</a></p> <p style="margin: 12pt 0cm 0pt; background: white;">The website provides information on what is happening across the country and features a range of useful resources about co-operatives and the International Year for businesses, individuals, journalists and all those interested in learning more.</p> <p style="margin: 12pt 0cm 0pt; background: white;">Also available on the website is a UK identity mark for the International Year. Developed by The Co-operative Group and Co-operatives UK, it can be downloaded in various formats by co-operative businesses and supporters for use in communications and campaigns during the International Year.</p> <p style="margin: 12pt 0cm 0pt; background: white;">In addition, toolkits and leaflets can now be ordered from the site. A range of materials will be added over the coming months – case studies, images and films – which businesses and supporters can use to make the most of the International Year.</p> <p style="margin: 12pt 0cm 0pt; background: white;">The 2012 website also provides extensive links to other activities and sites across the world, including a feed to the Global News Hub and a forthcoming link to <a href="http://www.stories.coop/" title="Visit the Stories dot coop website for more information">www.stories.coop</a>, a new International Co-operative Alliance initiative which is due to go live at the start of 2012.</p> <p style="margin: 12pt 0cm 0pt; background: white;">Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, said: </p> <p style="margin: 12pt 0cm 0pt; background: white;"><i>"2012 is a unique opportunity. We'd love to see everyone in the sector – and beyond – make it a co-operative year by promoting their co-operative values.</i></p> <p style="margin: 12pt 0cm 0pt; background: white;">"<i>This new website will help businesses and individuals make the most of it – an online events map, useful resources to order or download and links to what else is happening. It will be an online hub for everyone in the UK involved or interested in the International Year of Co-operatives."</i></p> <p style="margin: 12pt 0cm 0pt; background: white;">To find out more, please visit the website <a href="http://www.uk.coop/2012" title="Visit the Co-operatives UK 2012 website">www.uk.coop/2012</a></p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx17Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Star Co-op staff notch up 190 years of service. - 21 December 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Chelmsford Star Co-operative recently held its 24^th retired and long serving employees dinner at its quadrant department store, in Chelmsford.</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Over 100 attended the event, including 10 members of staff who had reached mile stone lengths of service.  Between them they had notched up 190 years of working for the Society. In paying tribute to them, Chief Executive Officer, Tony Gudgeon said;</p> <p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><i>“We currently employ over 800 staff across our four trading divisions and our employees are critical to the success of our business. Therefore it’s a great pleasure to take time out to reward these particular individuals who have given so much to the Society for much of their working life.”</i></p> The employee who had reached the longest service of 35 years was Veronica Graham, from Springfield in Chelmsford. She currently works on administration for the food division and plans to retire in 2012. <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/news.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/news.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx18Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Silver Lining for Local Travel Agent - 27 October 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p>Local Co-operative Society Chelmsford Star has just celebrated 25 years of travel in its Chelmsford quadrant department store.</p> <p>Over the years the travel department has served literally thousands of people creating dream holidays. Currently branded as the Co-operative Travel, the four well travelled members of staff spend much of their time today putting together long haul holidays for the more discerning clients. Travel Manager, Debbie Jackson said;</p> <p><em>"Our clients expect a good selection of travel options, competitive prices but service is the key. They want to feel special and that their custom is valued. Hence why we see so much repeat business, our girls have a wealth of experience so that we can correctly advise ensuring that each of our clients get the holiday they deserve"</em></p> <p>To celebrate the occasion the staff were joined by the original Manager, John De La Pascua, who commented;</p> <p><em>"I have been retired for thirteen years now, but I did relish my time as a Travel Manager, it was always so rewarding especially when you had clients return year after year, so you know you were doing a good job"</em></p> <p>Debbie and John reflected on what had happened in the travel industry over the past 25 years and were both surprised to learn that the best selling travel firm in 1986 was Thomsons and today it was still the same!</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx15Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Chelmsford Star Co-operative Funerals Services the Community for 75 years! - 26 October 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p>Chelmsford Star Co-operative Services Funeral division brought Chelmsford town centre to a halt at midday last Saturday when it celebrated 75 years of serving the local community with a funeral procession from Writtle to one of its branches in Baddow Road.</p> <p>Starting on the green in Writtle, many of the villagers came to see and photograph an assortment of various funeral vehicles including a 1935 Austin, a horse drawn carriage and a motorbike with side coffin carrier.</p> <p>The procession left Writtle at 12 noon to pass the Society's Broomfield funeral branch on its way through the town centre towards the Army Navy roundabout. At that point it was then led down Baddow Road towards the funeral branch, by Craig Jackson, Funeral Operations Manager and Corrine Cadey one of the Society's female funeral directors.</p> <p>Craig commented;</p> <p><em>"Fortunately the weather was on our side, and we were delighted with the turnout by everyone. We now look forward to the next 75 years and wonder what the future has in store? I expect a funeral in 2064 may well look very different to today as indeed one in 2011 does against one that took place in 1936."</em></p> <p>At the Baddow Road branch many came to view an exhibition of a number of historic items including a funeral helmet dating back to 1558 and a Funeral bier from 1899. The Society's President, Maurice Austin helped ex funeral employee Jan Dewer (also born in 1936), to cut the specially made anniversary cake.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx14Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Support for harvest for the hungry in its 12th year - 25 October 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p>Chelmsford Star Co-operative has supported local initiative 'Harvest for the Hungry' since its inception in 1999. This county wide annual event is hoping to raise this year £35k or 44 tons of aid which will be sent to the neediest parts of North Western Bulgaria. The project involves 106 schools and 38 churches and many businesses and individuals working together to make a huge difference to an area so desperate for humanitarian help. The Society donated this year a pallet of Co-operative flour and much needed shrink wrap to protect all the donated goods for their long journey by road. </p> <p>Marketing & PR Manager Vanessa Howard said;</p> <p><em>'When we hear stories about how a simple parcel of food can mean life or death to some people it's humbling and reminds us of just how lucky we are not to be in their situation. This is such a worthwhile project that binds the Essex community together for the benefit of others'</em></p> <p>Since the project started over 40 000 boxes of food aid have been sent helping in particular, orphans and the elderly in a village called Lom on the Danube. The Charity has also managed to transform a dilapidated children's home, sent 3 ambulances, a mini bus and a fire engine.</p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx13Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">The quadrant department store in Chelmsford is all heart - 24 October 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p>The quadrant department store in Chelmsford has made a commitment to giving its customers and workers an enhanced level of protection against potentially fatal heart attacks.</p> <p>It has recently purchased an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and called in St John Ambulance to train 6 members of staff in how to use it.</p> <p>In the UK, one person suffers a heart attack every two minutes and as many as one in three will die before they reach hospital. For each minute that passes without defibrillation, the chances of survival fall by up to 10 per cent. Survival rates increase by more than 50% if a defibrillator is used within the first four minutes. Thirteen per cent of workplace casualties are cardiac arrest victims.</p> <p>St John Ambulance in the East of England launched a campaign earlier this year to encourage more businesses to buy in the AEDs and training in a bid to stop people dying unnecessarily.</p> <p>St John Ambulance East Regional Marketing Manager Phil Cheung said:</p> <p><em>'We're delighted that the quadrant has taken up our offer and hope many others follow suit. Businesses who have experienced someone dying of a heart attack on their premises know it's extremely traumatic for everyone involved. And we know that those deaths can be dramatically reduced with this simple machine. We provide training but it is actually so straight forward it tells you what to do itself, enabling anyone to be the difference between a life lost and a life saved.'</em></p> <p>Vanessa Howard, Marketing & PR Manager at the quadrant said:</p> <p><em>'We serve many thousand customers a week throughout our store and we feel that having a defibrillator on the premises gives everyone the peace of mind that we are trained and have equipment should it ever be required. It’s really an extension to our customer service as a caring organisation."</em></p> <p>A defibrillator can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved. Phil Cheung added:</p> <p>'Every year, thousands of people die of cardiac arrest when first aid could give them the chance to live. Our own research shows that currently 72% of businesses don't have access to a defibrillator despite 66% of employees believing that employers should reasonably be expected to keep one.</p> <p>To encourage more businesses and organisations to install defibrillators, St John Ambulance is offering a special package in the East of England of a Philips Heart Start defibrillator and on-site training in how to use it for up to eight people for just £1,295 plus VAT. </p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx12Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT<table><tr><td></td><td valign="top"><span class="SubHead">Record interim results for Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society - 23 October 2011</span><div class="Normal DNN_ANN_Description"><p>Essex based Chelmsford Star has reported record interim results for 28 weeks ended 13th August 2011.</p> <p>Gross takings amounted to £45,598,618, an increase of £4,433,714 or 10.77%, aided by an expansion in Food. Gross takings on a "like for like" basis increased by £1,743,981 or 4.24%.</p> <p>Gross takings in the Society's convenience based Food business grew 12.82%, and 5.23% on a "like for like" basis. Commenting on the Society's Food figures, Chief Executive Officer, Tony Gudgeon stated,<em> "I am very pleased with our Food performance because for the third year running we are in the upper quartile of food growth on a "like for like" basis and we have grown profitability in a very difficult market".</em></p> <p>The challenging economic conditions have had an effect on the Society's Departmental Stores where business is down 3.16%, but Travel up 12.68%, Funerals up 16.48% and Investment Property income up 6.70% have all contributed to very solid growth.</p> <p>Trading profit amounted to £1,141,123, which is a new interim record for the Society, and net profit amounted to £956,461, which is £87,201 or 10.0% higher than a year ago.</p> <p>Commenting on profitability, Society President, Maurice Austin stated, <em>"Our business plan and business strategies recognised that 2011 was going to be very difficult for retailers but our business model has shown real resilience and delivered an interim result which is better than we anticipated".</em></p> <a href="http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx" target="_self">read more ...</a></div></td></tr></table>http://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspxhttp://www2.chelmsfordstar.coop/Society/News.aspx11Sun, 23 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT