Trio of c-store retailers win awards as Mo Razzaq takes over as national president at the Fed
HIGHLY regarded Scottish retailer Mo Razzaq vowed to make the Fed stronger still as he took over as national president at the organisation’s annual conference earlier this month.
The Blantyre store owner set out his vision the day after three other Scottish c-store operators had been recognised for their community work and innovative thinking at the Fed Awards.
Razzaq told delegates at the event in Birmingham: “Our vision is clear: Together, we aim to build a federation where every retailer thrives, communities are enriched and our collective voice shapes a brighter future.
“Our theme for the coming term is ‘Be Bold’. This isn’t just a slogan – it’s a commitment to our members and a pledge to deliver meaningful change.”
The previous evening, three well-known Scottish retailers picked up a clutch of gongs at the glittering awards ceremony, hosted by impressionist Rory Bremner in the city’s Hilton Metropole Hotel.
Glasgow store owner Natalie Lightfoot won the Best Use of Social Media and Community Champion of the Year awards.
Girish Jeeva, who has two stores in Glasgow, won the Best Use of Technology award. And young Edinburgh retailer Sophie Williams took the title of Rising Star as well as being highly commended in the Social Media category.
Judges praised Natalie for knowing how to use all social media platforms effectively and fundraising for a wide number of local charities.
Unfortunately, Natalie was unable to attend the ceremony due to illness, so husband Martin collected the honours.
He said: “Winning one award would have been great but to win two is a privilege. These awards are not for selling products, they are for providing services.”
The judges noted Girish had embraced all aspects of technology, from security and compliance to the working environment and customer experience.
He said: “I hope it inspires other retailers to see what we have done and how it can benefit their stores as well.”
Sophie impressed the judges for having addressed MPs, MSPs and Scottish Grocers’ Federation conference delegates, as well as creating a happy environment at her parents’ store.
Sophie said: “I’m so passionate about retail and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
