Labour MP for Cardiff North, Julie Morgan has honoured local independent retailers at an awards ceremony hosted by South Wales wholesaler BA Cash & Carry.
Held at the prestigious Cardiff City Hall, the awards recognise the efforts of BA Cash & Carry's Business Achievers Club retailers over the past 12 months. Speaking before the awards ceremony, Julie Morgan MP was quick to praise the independent retailers in the room for their hard work and vital contribution to their communities especially during the current economic difficulties, and recognised that success achieved during these hard times should be celebrated, exactly as BA Cash & Carry and its customers were doing so.
Developed with help from supporting major suppliers, the Business Achievers Club helps BA's independent retailers compete in the marketplace with advice on good retail discipline and promotional activity to support this. It is open to retailers across its Cardiff and Swansea depots.
The awards include the Business Achiever of the Year, Most Improved retailer of the Year and Own Brand Retailer of the Year. Retailers short-listed for the awards include many family-owned and run businesses that play an integral role within their communities, often involved in local charities, clubs and support nearby schools.
Mr Aziz, owner of the Green Acre Lifestyle Express in Swansea, was the recipient of the top retailer award, winning a cheque for £1,500 and a donation to his charity of choice.
Zahier Ahmed, Director of BA Cash & Carry said: "The awards were created to honour and recognise our independent retailers and the hard work they put in throughout the year.
"It is a positive step on behalf of BA to recognise that our retailers are doing a good job despite the pressures that are put upon them in the current marketplace."
In addition to the awards, a charity auction was also held of sporting memorabilia with over £10,000 raised for the Islamic Relief Fund, including a cricket bat signed by Pakistan Cricketing Legends going under the hammer for over £1,000. Entertainment was provided by TV illusionist David Penn
