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Entry form I Entry tips I Entry brochure PDF

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Independent Retailer of the Year

The retail industry has changed considerably in recent years and many independent retailers now work in conjunction with symbol groups, food-to-go brands, fuel companies and more. For this award we view an independent retailer as a business such as a c-store or forecourt store – operating up to two stores – where the owner is directly involved in the day-to-day operation and management of the store(s) and is, ultimately, the main decision maker. The store(s) may operate under their own name or under a symbol or fascia.

Judges will be looking for Independent spirit and character – Your store should be different from others and customers should realise that you are responsible for decision making, for providing a special service and that you are an integral part of the local community.

How do you achieve that and how do you communicate it?

• Commercial viability How have you developed your store and your service in recent years? Has that achieved growth in both sales and profits?

• Strength and resilience How do you face up to competition? Do you face significant competition from other independents or symbols, multiple convenience stores or discounters? What have you done (or what do you plan to do) to meet such competition?

• Community involvement Are you involved in local activities, events, festivals, groups and/ or charities? What have you done in recent times? Do you ensure your business also benefits from your efforts? Do you hold your own community events? Do you have a relationship with local authorities such as the local Police Officer?

• Staff development Independents rarely have the same training resources as large groups of managed stores. How do you organise staff training and development? How do you inform staff of items of importance to the business and encourage a feeling of ownership and commitment among your employees? Do you hold regular staff meetings? Do colleagues have a career path?

• Trade and market knowledge How do you use suppliers, wholesalers and trade publications to enhance your market knowledge? Do you actively engage with them? What value does this add to your business?

• Positivity What are some of the best things about your store and business? What are you USPs?

• Marketing and communication How do you get your message across? Do you use leaflets and flyers? Do you have promotional screens in store? Have you developed a social media (for example Facebook) presence? Do you use advertising or have a relationship with the local media?

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SUPPORTED BY

Booker is the UK’s leading food & drink wholesaler, with 172 branches nationwide including 22 in Scotland. Branches range from Elgin to Dumfries and Aberdeen to Oban and our customer commitment is ‘choice up, prices down and better service.’ We offer a fantastic choice of great value, quality own-brands such as Euro Shopper and Happy Shopper that deliver a minimum of 30% POR for retailers, along with a wide range of branded products. This is coupled with everyday low prices and market-leading promotions, along with a great service that includes internet ordering and delivery at cash & carry prices.

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