Symbol group Nisa and independent retail chain North East Convenience Stores (NECS) are to end their relationship after 16 years.

Nisa said that the retailer, which has 31 stores and employs 450 staff, doesn’t fit in with its turnaround plans, which includes shedding non-profit making accounts.

NECS financial director Sanjeev Vadhera told Retail Express the company had a record 2015 and aims to add another 10 stores to its portfolio in the next 12 to 15 months.

He said: “We are currently in detailed conversations with a new partner and are very excited for the future.”

The partnership with Nisa will end in August.