East of England Co-op saw its trading profits rise for the third year running to reach £2m - despite economic headwinds, its annual results reveal.

It delivered the impressive performance "against the odds", said its delighted chief executive Andy Rigby, who has overseen a remarkable turnaround for the business.

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East of England Co-op celebrates another profitable year (Image: East of England Co-op)

As well as seeing its profits rise by £1m, the chain also managed to cuts its CO2 emissions by a quarter and support 775 community groups and local charities through its community programmes.

Through the latter it scooped the Community Retailer of the Year – Multiple title at the Retail Industry Awards.

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It also opened its first fully cashless store at Ipswich Train Station – which was recognised as one of 25 "stores of future" worldwide by Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD).

The business - which is based at Wherstead, Ipswich - employs more than 3,000........

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