CATEGORIES
The judging panel will be looking for entrants to demonstrate how they have applied their retail knowledge, creativity and industry know-how to deliver best practice in retail in Scotland. You are encouraged to send in supporting materials that are appropriate to the category entered. These could include promotional videos.
Retail Training Initiative
Sponsored by Glasgow North Regeneration Agency
Criteria tbc
Customer Service Excellence Award
Sponsored by Land Securities
This category is open to retailers who can demonstrate they have raised the bar in terms of customer service. The focus will be on their commitment to exceed customer expectations in order to deliver a unique customer experience.
The judges will be looking for:
- A truly innovative approach to customer care, tailored to meet the needs of the customer base.
- Evidence of a strong commitment and buy in at all levels within the business.
- Strong evidence of ongoing positive customer feedback.
Green Retailer of the Year
Sponsored by Environmental Waste Solutions Limited
This award recognises the effort and true commitment of a retailer to be as 'green' in as many aspects of the business as possible.
The judges will be looking for evidence of:
- A green ethos running through the business, whether through recycling, using energy saving light bulbs, turning off electrical equipment etc.
- Greening core processes, whether purchasing and using energy efficient machinery / equipment, innovative ways to reduce or re-use waste to reduce landfill charges, minimising packaging or using green alternatives, sourcing from 'green' suppliers or locally, being carbon-neutral and off-setting emissions etc.
- Green accreditations e.g. A green audit from Carbon Trust and/or Envirowise; carbon neutral status via www.carbonneutral.com; Green Mark accreditation via www.greenmark.co.uk
Store Manager of the Year
Sponsored by Glasgow Fort Shopping Park
This award recognises the store manager of any size of retail business who has shown outstanding commitment in driving the business forward through its people, product and service offering.
The judges will be looking for evidence of:
- Leadership and staff motivation
- Commitment to quality and best practice in store operations
- Exceptional business performance and results
- A strong awareness of community and wider business priorities and issues
Independent Retailer of the Year
This award recognises the independent retailer who can demonstrate individuality, innovative merchandising and quality service based on a keen understanding of the customer base.
The judging panel will be looking for evidence of:
- Innovation in product selection and merchandising
- Understanding of the local customer base
- Commitment to the local community
Responsible Retailer of the Year
This award will recognise a retailer who has corporate responsibility embedded in its business and operations at all levels.
The judging panel will be looking for evidence of:
- Responsible retailing being part of the company's overall business strategy
- Significant ethical achievements through CSR, Fair Trade or Environmental initiatives
- Commitment of all employees to implement responsible practices
Shopping Destination of the Year
This award is for the town, city, mall or shopping centre which offers the best in Scottish retail in a welcoming and accessible environment.
The judging panel will be looking for evidence of:
- A quality customer experience with an appropriate retail mix
- Increased footfall, repeat business and/or revenues over the last three years
- Access and facilities that offer a safe and welcoming environment for all shoppers
- Commitment to safety and other issues affecting the local community
National Chain of the Year
This award is for retailers who operate in Scotland but are headquatered outside the country, this award will recognise excellence in performance, product and customer service.
The judging panel will be looking for evidence of:
- A strong understanding of the Scottish market place and the Scottish consumer
- A business who has generated local employment opportunities
- Evidence of commitment and ongoing investment in the local community
Retailer of the Year
The most coveted award of all recognises the champion of champions in Scottish retail.
The judging panel will be looking for evidence of:
- Outstanding performance across every aspect of the business including financial results
- Clear brand values and ongoing commitment to product and store innovation
- Commitment of all staff to the highest standards of customer care and best practice in retailing
- Active involvement in the local community
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