Co-op stores in Milton Keynes start selling Easter eggs on Boxing Day

Chocolates such as Cadbury crème eggs and mini eggs were put on display on December 26 - and already thousands have been sold.

Jamie Joyce, store manager, said: “Every year we get asked ‘why are you stocking Easter products already?’ The truth is that the demand is there and as a convenience retailer we aim to make sure we can meet all our customer’s needs.

He added: “While a lot of people see January as a time to get healthier and cut back, the lure of a crème egg or a packet of mini eggs is often too much to resist and much easier to justify after a run outdoors or as a small treat alongside a healthy diet.

"“The popularity of Easter products shows no sign of slowing. We have also stocked hot cross buns all year round for the last four years due to customer demand and they have become a weekly staple for many people.”

Central England Co-op expects to see around four million Easter eggs, treats and related products make their way through the retailer’s 120,000 sq ft Food Distribution Centre in Leicester and into stores across 16 counties in the run-up to Easter this year.