Highlights
• Gross turnover grows 9% - 14th successive year of growth above inflation
• Funerals and Travel have a record year
• Sales of Fairtrade, local food and co-operative brand products grow impressively
The past year has not been without its challenges, primarily because of the continuing harsh economic conditions which are making trading difficult for retailers.
The Society‘s focus is to continuously improve our Co-operative and to this end the year saw a major acquisition in the form of a Petrol Filling Station in Great Baddow, previously trading as Jones of Chelmsford. The Society's Funeral business had yet another record year, while our Travel business also had an exceptional year as consumers look for security and independence when booking their holidays.
There is no doubt that the coming year will again be very demanding and the Society’s Business Plan and financial strategies recognise this. Members can be assured that we will be doing everything possible to build on our progress of recent years.