The stars of UK convenience retail

Each September, the Independent Achievers Academy selects the Top 100 local news and convenience stores in the UK.

These independently-run stores are judged to consistently deliver best practice across 12 key retail categories from the quality of their layout and the tailoring of their range to local shoppers and good availability to the magic of the welcome they give customers.

“The IAA encourages constant progression, higher standards and sharing best practice between like-minded retailers throughout the year. Learning from other IAA retailers has given us great results.”
Adam Hogwood, Budgens of Broadstairs

“Being in the Top 100 is brilliant. It gives me the motivation to continue improving and to aim even higher next year,” says Umesh Bathia (pictured above), of Premier More for Less in Farnham.

The Top 100 stores were selected following a rigorous evaluation process, including an independent mystery shopper assessment.

“Standards this year have been higher than ever and our assessors found it very difficult to agree this list of great shops,” says Newtrade managing director Nick Shanagher.

“The great thing about the map of the Top 100 is that brilliance is located all around the country and it is easy for you to visit the shops, talk to the owners and find out for yourself what the future stars of retail look like.”

The next step in this year’s IAA is the selection of the finalists, which will be announced at the Local Shop Summit at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London on 14 October. If you would like a chance to take part, please call Stella Emseis on 020 7689 3351 or email events@newtrade.co.uk.