Central England Co-op has revealed some of its best-selling products and Christmas shopping habits as its customers stock up for the festive period.
New research conducted by the Society involving over 200 food stores spread across 16 counties has found the best-selling items across the festive season.
The figures for Christmas 2018 show that the nation’s love affair with the humble mince pie only grows stronger by the year.
Mince pie sales at Central England Co-op stores last Christmas were 15 per cent up on the previous year, with 51,000 more making there way into customers’ baskets.
Central England Co-op stores offer a great selection of mince pies including the ever popular and great value Co-op Deep Filled Mince Pies (£1), the acclaimed Co-op Irresistible Luxury Mince Pies (£2) and Free From Gluten Free Mince Pies (£2).
This year, the retailer has also introduced Co-op Irresistible Mince Pie Shortbread (£2) for those mince pie aficionados looking for something a bit different but no less festive.
The research also shines a light on what were the top sellers last Christmas in all ranges, and there were some interesting results.
Despite the growing popularity of gins and big sales of festive favourites such as Baileys Irish Cream and Mulled Wine, it was prosecco that remained the Christmas tipple of choice with the Co-op Irresistible Prosecco at number one.
Unsurprisingly, the most popular fruit throughout the year the banana is surpassed in the run-up to Christmas by lemons and limes which become the top sellers as crucial additions to that festive drink.
In terms of desserts, the best sellers were old classics – profiteroles at number one followed by strawberry trifle.
This year Central England Co-op is stocking what is sure to be a Christmas showstopper with new Co-op Clementine Profiteroles (£5) set to be the must-have finale to Christmas dinner. Look out for them in stores from December 15.
The data also reveals our customers are keen to treat their pets to something a little festive at this time of year with the biggest selling pet foods a turkey terrine for cats and turkey chunks in jelly for dogs.
Sita Chauhan, Customer Experience and Insights Manager at Central England Co-op, said: “It is no surprise to see that mince pies continue to be a favourite with our shoppers and at Central England Co-op there are plenty of great options to keep the family happy this festive season.
“The research shows that our customers and members are keen to enjoy the Christmas period with seasonal favourites and products that suit the season and we are stocking our stores with lots of festive treats, while ensuring that those important everyday items that remain popular all year around are still readily available.”