THE Co-operative retained its crown as national convenience chain of the year at the annual Retail Industry Awards.

And it was also named fresh flower supermarket of the year.

Judges praised the Co-op for delivering “consistently strong results” while at the same time completing its takeover of rival Somerfield.

They were also impressed by the redeveloped product range, promotions on healthy food and “superb” new store layouts.

Judges, who named the Co-op fresh flower supermarket of the year, praised its “strong all-round performance, impressive sales growth and commitment to its suppliers.

Tim Hurrell, Co-op group managing director for food retail said: “We are delighted to have won two such prestigious awards.

“These awards are a fitting endorsement of the dedication and hard work by so many people at The Co-operative.”