An agreement has been reached that will see agency implants in Central England Co-op Food Stores in Atherstone, Oakham, Stirchley, Castle Donington, Glenfield and Ibstock transferring to the society early in October.

All current Cook staff have been offered the opportunity to move to their new employer under the Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment (TUPE) legislation, while new roles will also be created.

Paul Dale, Central England Co-op’s head of specialist business said: “This is great news for customers, colleagues and members and we are delighted to announce the expansion of Central England Co-operative Travel from 20 to 26 branches.

“This will now mean that we will be able to offer even more people a wide choice of products from a variety of tour operator partners across more locations than ever before.

“More customers and members will now be able to book their travel and holiday arrangements with our highly skilled colleagues while enjoying membership benefits and all in the convenient surroundings of one of our local food stores.”