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Middlesbrough Convenience Store Wins Prestigious Industry Award

A shop in Middlesbrough has been recognised as one of the top independent convenience stores across the UK and Ireland by a leading industry development programme.

Belle Vue Convenience Store was crowned as winner of the Responsible Retailing category at the Independent Achievers Academy (IAA) Gala Dinner in London last night. The store was also shortlisted for Customer Service.

The IAA, owned and managed by Newtrade, is a market leading business programme that helps develop the stores of independent convenience retailers and rewards best practice.

The judging panel of industry experts were impressed by Belle Vue Convenience Store’s commitment to responsible retailing and contribution to the wider community. The store’s investment in training ensures every member of the team contributes to making the store and the wider community a safe place. Shop owner, Bay Bashir was described as not only a brilliant retailer but a pillar of his community.

Bay said: “The Independent Achievers Academy has really improved my business by getting it evaluated objectively. It has been really gratifying for me, for my customers and for staff.

“I now plan to expand my business. I have two stores at the moment and I’d like to get two more in the next couple of months and five by the end of next year.”

Sales from independent convenience retailers currently total £37.45bn and represent a fifth of the UK grocery market, according to industry experts*. In the past year the sector has experienced growth of more than five per cent and is predicted to grow to nearly £49.0bn over the next five years.

“The way we shop has changed forever and retailers like Belle Vue Convenience Store play an important role in our local communities,” said Nick Shanagher, managing director of Newtrade.

“Retailers all over the country dedicate time to making sure their offer is right for their shoppers. This award is a great testament to the hard work of Bay and his team to help their customers save time and money, whilst providing excellent levels of quality and service.”

Following a rigorous evaluation process, which included a mystery shop visit, Belle Vue Convenience Store was named one of the Top 100 independent convenience shops in the UK and Ireland this summer. It was then shortlisted as an IAA award finalist in October.

Bay received his award at the prestigious IAA Gala Dinner at Sheraton Park Lane Hotel in London on Wednesday (26 November). The award was presented by David Kinch, Divisional Sales Manager, JTI which sponsored the Responsible Retailing category.

The Gala was hosted by Jeff Pearce, an award-winning retailer and best-selling author, who challenged retailers to continue innovating to better serve their customers.

For more information visit betterRetailing.com/IAA

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by The People Experts Blog .