Independent retail talent celebrated at the bira conference and awards
The very best independent retail talent celebrated at bira’s national conference and awards
The British Independent Retailers Association’s (bira) national conference and gala awards dinner took place at the Jurys Inn, Hinckley Island, Leicestershire on Thursday 10th May 2018. The annual event showcases the very best of the independent retail industry, as well as those businesses that support the sector.
With the future at its heart, the conference and awards attracted the most forward-thinking speakers, independent retailers, their teams and employees. The jam-packed day programme was rounded off with a glittering awards ceremony compered by Reverend Richard Coles, from The Communards. The bira awards celebrate the talent, hard work, innovation and achievements of bira members and their shining successes as retailers in the UK.
Alan Hawkins, bira CEO said: “We’ve just returned from the 2018 bira conference and awards and what a truly special night. Not only was it my last as CEO, but the talent in our industry never fails to impress and amaze me. Members are doing incredible things for retail but also for their local communities and charities. Congratulations to all of our very deserving winners and runner ups, you really deserve the accolades.”
The 2018 bira award winners
bira direct – Supplier of the year – Hardware, Garden, DIY & Pet
Supreme Imports
bira direct – Supplier of the year – Cookshop, Housewares, Tabletop & Gift
EPE International
bira direct – Overall best support package for independent retail award
Stax Trade Centres
Independent retail employee of the year
Sophie Bass – Sugar & Ice
Team of the year
Roobarb Retail
Retail business of the year – Winner
Aspire Style
Local Hero – Winner
Chris Patterson – Pattersons
Charitable Champion Winners
Jeff Baker – Connect Distribution Services
Diane Bunn – Bunns Cakes & Bakes (award collected by Lorna Lewis, Regional Membership Manager, bira)
Kevin Bellwood – Roobarb Retail
Matthew Hansford – Hansfords Menswear
Expansion of the year
Vin Vara – The Toolshop Group