Nisa has a fresh feel thanks to TV advertising campaign

Scunthorpe-based Nisa is a member-owned organisation, which helps independent retailers remain competitive in the food and drink markets.

In the 39 weeks from April to December 2012, the company achieved an 0.7 per cent increase in overall sales through central distribution services.

During December, Nisa’s like for like sales were up 6.7 per cent and its volumes increased by 9.7 per cent.

According to a Nisa spokesman, this improvement can be partly attributed to the successful introduction of bread to its central distribution services.

During December, confectionery increased 16.7 per cent in value, while licenced delivered a 4.7 per cent rise.

The Nisa symbol group has also achieved strong trading figures, with an overall 14.4 per cent increase in sales in the third quarter of 2012.

A spokesman for Nisa, which employs 280 staff in Scunthorpe, said: “Many factors can be attributed to the excellent sales increase, including the roll out of a fresh produce trial, which saw an increase of 141 per cent in terms of volume, as well as national and television advert- ising.

“Nisa has also achieved pleasing recruitment figures, bringing on board more than 190 members from April 2012 until December 2012, representing a 7.9 per cent year-on-year increase on last year’s record figures.”

Simon Webster, Nisa finance director, said: “The current trading environment is proving difficult for the retail market.

“Nisa is pleased to announce an increase in sales and strong recruitment figures for the 39 weeks to December 2012.

“This is testament to the strength of Nisa members and the service we offer.”

Nisa was formed in 1977 to protect the interests of independent retailers against the growth of the big retailers.

Today Nisa members can benefit from a support package provided by the member support centre in Scunthorpe, which includes a trading team.

Nisa represents 1080 registered shareholders, who operate around 3,750 stores.

In recent years, Nisa has opened a depot in Livingston, to provide an improved service to its Scottish and Irish members.