Londis invested £1m in retailer store developments in the final six months of 2014, with another £2.3m allocated for 2015 projects.

The symbol group’s aim is to help retailers grow their businesses locally and cement their position in their local neighbourhoods.

This year, 100 store development projects were undertaken and more is scheduled for 2015. Development ranged from mini-store refits focusing on the growth of the fresh and chilled category, to a 3,000 sq ft new store development showcasing the latest Londis offers.

Ramesh Shingadia, from Horsham in West Sussex, was supported by Londis in 2014. He said: “Their help resulted in a fantastic transformation for my store, where I’m now experiencing 20% sales growth.”

“The financial contribution from Londis, made the project more affordable, but the vital project management side, took a lot of the pressure and worry off me.”

Each project was a co-development between Londis and the independent retailer. The opportunity is available for existing retailers and those who are new to the group.

Londis Retail Director John Pattison said: “Modern shoppers demand a comprehensive range of goods and services to suit their needs and they expect to find these within a bright, modern shopping environment. Through our co-investment schemes and our store development team’s expertise, we can help local retailers provide all this.”