Champion of convenience for Scotland
Winner: Graham Watson
Industry Achievement Award supported by OCB by Republic Technologies UK
Interview with Graham Watson, store owner at Premier Watsons Grocers
LEADING convenience retailer Graham Watson’s store could be described as unique, even quirky.
But that won’t come as a surprise to anyone who has ever met the winner of the 2023 Industry Achievement Award, the top accolade at the Scottish Grocer Awards, because he is a real character.
As a force of nature within convenience retail, his passion for the sector has seen him rise to the top both in terms of esteem from his peers and within the channel and associated industries more generally.
And he is determined to use his new position as president of the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) for the benefit of all c-store operators.
Graham, owner of Premier Watsons Grocers in the picturesque rural community of Moniaive, Dumfriesshire, has been a positive voice for independent retailers for a number of years.
He has not been afraid to challenge politicians over legislation that could harm the convenience channel and has not been shy when it comes to speaking out to the media about the difficulties retailers can face, such as threats to store staff.
Graham explained his position when Scottish Grocer caught up with him recently to see what he has been up to since his big win at the glittering awards ceremony in the Hilton Glasgow last November.
The SGF president said: “I need to be a mouthpiece for independent retailers. I’m known for being honest and direct and I will speak up for convenience store operators everywhere.
“For example, one minute, we were hailed as the heroes during the covid pandemic. The next, we are somehow perceived as the enemy by politicians because we question their actions.
“The reality is that we can’t be both and, put simply, legislation makes things tougher because the unintended consequences often haven’t been thought about. Regulation is not the answer.”
Graham said he hoped to work with everyone from other organisations, such as the Association of Convenience Stores, because people across the industry could learn from each other.
He also spoke of his hopes to make the SGF annual conference even more engaging and interactive, citing the success of having the trade show stands in the main conference auditorium this year and the cocktail-making breakout session run by Pernod Ricard.
What Graham does for his community also marks him out as exceptional. Indeed, his efforts, particularly in supporting vulnerable, elderly and shielding residents during the pandemic, saw him receive the British Empire Medal and be a guest at the coronation of King Charles.
He said: “I still deliver to the elderly and vulnerable in the village – going into their homes and unpacking their shopping and even loosening jar lids for them, if they wish.”
The store houses a community computer and printer for people to work at and Graham runs a number of local events throughout the year. He is seen by his customers as being at the heart of the community – as the comments on the store’s Facebook page clearly show.
The connection is clear to see in the store, with a gallery of 250 photos of Moniaive residents, past and present, that was created when the store became a Creative Place Awards winner in 2015, as well as numerous children’s paintings.
There’s also a homage to the late Alan Grant, who lived locally and who was a comic book writer most famously known for his work on Judge Dredd and various Batman titles.
Graham said: “People love their photos being on the wall and it’s a great way to remember those who are no longer here.”
Another quirky touch is a 1952 vintage wireless that Graham has on display “just for a bit of fun”.
It reflects the history of the store, which has traded for well over 150 years – with the front windows and commanding upstairs office unchanged for decades.
As for events, Graham organises up to half a dozen fundraisers throughout the year for various charities and local organisations, such as the gala committee, flower show, bowling competition and fireworks display – often being the disco DJ for these events and birthday parties.
As a rugby fan, Graham completed 5,000 press-ups during the last Six Nations competition to raise £4,500 for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation motor neuron disease charity.
And as his wife, Elaine, works at the local primary school, there is a strong connection with youngsters in the village – preparations were under way for a pumpkin carving competition during Scottish Grocer’s visit.
In recent times, Graham has become even more pivotal in people’s lives by becoming a celebrant, arguably benefiting the wider convenience sector because it represents the caring, thoughtful nature of many people in the industry.
He said: “The shop is obviously my priority but I plan to do more celebrant work across south-west Scotland. I’ve conducted six weddings in the last four months.”
Sustainability is also another passion for Graham and this is evident across the store, with eco-friendly dispensers for the likes of pasta, cereals and sweets, plenty of fresh fruit and veg, as well as a whole host of locally sourced produce.
This includes fare from a nearby butchers, fish, fresh bakery goods, filled rolls and sandwiches made by the local pub, and even gin and beer made specifically for his store.
Catering to the diverse community, shoppers can find a wide range of premium and budget-friendly lines across the categories. There is an extensive free-from range and Graham even stocks “working dog” food for shepherds to buy.
With Moniaive being an isolated community and the store being sizeable, Graham has ensured his customers can do a full shop.
Having been a convenience retailer for nearly 25 years, Graham is also dedicated to mentoring others, often travelling to other parts of Scotland to assist colleagues in building up their own businesses.
And he had this advice for those starting out on their convenience channel journey: “Make sure you look after yourselves and your relationships with your loved ones.
“Running a store or forecourt is not a job, more a way of life, with long hours and plenty of pressures. You will have bad days, so you need to be on the same page. Treat others as you would wish to be treated. And remember, you do make a difference to your customers.”
