Fed Awards trophy marks 28 years of service to the retail community
A FORMER Aberdeen newsagent received the Lifetime Achievement award from fellow retailers during the The Federation for Independent Retailers (the Fed) Awards.
Jim Maitland, who ran GMC Stores for 28 years with his wife Gladys, received the prestigious honour at a glittering ceremony in Birmingham in on 18 June.
There was a standing ovation for Jim as he took to the stage to accept his reward, which was presented in recognition of his outstanding contribution towards the Fed over the years.
Announcing his name on the evening, outgoing national president Mo Razzaq described him as a “true stalwart of the Federation demonstrating commitment, enthusiasm and hard work, holding elected office at branch, district and national level and providing help, advice and wise counsel to fellow retailers.
Razzaq also added that the contribution that Jim had made both to the world of independent retailing and to the Fed over 33 years was “immense”.
During his many years service to the Fed, Jim served as a national trustee and a pensions trustee and had been president of the Aberdeen brand of the Fed and served as the Scottish President for a time.
He played a key role in the Fed’s political activities, helping to raise awareness of the challenges facing independent news and convenience stores.
Razzaq said: “As a retailer, he enjoyed the highest regard from his customers. As a member, he has enjoyed the highest regard from fellow members.
“To all members, he is a great man and an honour to know. He commands great respect whenever he gets to his feet.”
Jim said: “Wednesday 18 June will stand out as one of the most memorable days in my life.
“To be awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award was something that made me feel very humble and proud in the knowledge that my fellow members thought that I had done enough to warrant such an award.
“It has been rewarding contributing to the work of the Federation, in the hope that hard-working colleagues might gain some benefit.
“I have been very fortunate to have worked in various teams that comprised not only very capable people but great company.”
