The annual Independent Marketing Awards have been relaunched this year with a new title – INDEPENDENT BUSINESS AWARDS. This reflects the change of focus of the Awards bringing them up to date with the industry today which has changed since 1993 when the Awards were launched. This has also allowed IER to introduce new awards categories which recognise retail business excellence as well as achievements in marketing and manufacturing.
The professionalism and service excellence of independent electrical retailers will be recognised by the following awards (introduced last year):
- Best CE Independent Retailer (large and small) – sponsored by Samsung Electronics,
- Best DA Independent Retailer (large and small) – sponsored by BSH Group
- Best Customer Service Award – sponsored by D&G.
On behalf of Samsung Electronics, Andy Griffiths, vice-president CE, commented: “Next year will provide a huge challenge to the independent sector. Samsung Electronics UK will strongly support the modern, adaptable, forward thinking retailer that will emerge during this testing time and are delighted to sponsor this category.”
Mike Jarrett, sales director of Neff, on behalf of the BSH Group, the sponsors of the Best DA Independent Retailer Award, said: “By sponsoring this award, we are able to highlight the excellent work of all independents and recognise the significant contribution of one outstanding domestic appliance retailer.”
Also Domestic & General was delighted to sponsor the IBA Customer Service Award. “Customer Service has always been at the heart of D&G’s business, ensuring both our retail partners and consumers benefit from class-leading pre and post sales care,” commented the company’s spokesman.
All companies will shortly be contacted by the IER team with a request to submit their nominations in the relevant award categories (please see: www.independentbusinessawards.com).
The Independent Business Awards 2009 event will take place on Thursday, 25 June 2009, at the St Johns Hotel in Solihull.
