Shops and retail employees in Manchester have been celebrated at an awards ceremony that promotes the retail industry and its contribution to Manchester. The Heart of Manchester BID (Business Improvement District) awards showcase the strength of the city centre’s retail sector and its contribution to the city’s economy, as well as the diverse, dedicated and talented work force employed in the industry.
Individuals as well as companies were recognised, with independents going toe-to-toe with big retail names.
House of Fraser won three awards, including Manager of the Year, Employee of the Year and Best Department Store, whilst Rollers Bakery and Cafe in The Arndale Centre took Food and Drink Retailer of the Year.
Owner Deji Adetujoye said: “Through hard work and being innovative, we’re competing with the big boys so we have to come up with bright ideas just to get people to notice us in a shopping centre.
“To stand out you have to do something extra special, every time you come into our store we know you’re going to leave with a good impression, because we go the extra mile.
“Winning this is like David v Goliath for us!”
The winners:
Rising Star Award
Fabienne Gawne, Selfridges
Food and Drink retailer of the year
Rollers Bakery and Cafe
Financial Services Team of the Year
M&S Bank
Employee of the Year
Vincent Tuohy, House of Fraser
Visual merchandising Team of the Year
Selfridges
Manager of the Year
Anne Latham, House of Fraser
Retail Team of the Year
Christopher James Jewellers
Outstanding Customer Service of the Year
Teresa Latham, McDonalds Manchester
Independent Retailer of the Year
Doherty Evans and Stott
Department Store of the Year
House of Fraser
High Street Retailer of the Year
Slaters Menswear
