by JENNY MONROE

THE Co-op food store on Lisburn's Longstone Street has unveiled a smart new look following the completion of a �300,000 revamp.

It features the consumer-owned Co-operative Group's new identity, The co-operative, which aims to highlight improved service standards across its 4,500 outlets in the UK, including its travel, pharmacy, funerals and bank branches, as well as its commitment to supporting local communities and ethical trading policies.

Pupils from Tonagh Primary School performed the ribbon cutting ceremony and were presented with a donation of �200 to mark the occasion.

The community store has been transformed with modern decor, new shelving, flooring, and eco-refrigeration plus a more shopper-friendly layout. An additional till has also been installed. "We provide a much valued service for the local community and I am confident our shoppers will be delighted with our improved store and wider selection of goods which will better meet all their daily grocery needs," said store manager Christine Wosley.

The emphasis will be on chilled and fresh foods with an increase in the range. There will also be more in-store baked breads and pastries while popular services including the cash machine and paypoint will be retained.

As the leading supermarket supporter of Fairtrade foods, The co-operative's popular Fairtrade products will feature and the store will carry the retailer's own health and beauty range with products that are not tested on animals.

jenny.monroe@jpress.co.uk

Ulster Star
26/12/2008