Retail Week Awards: winners announced

Primark CEO Paul Merchant was named The Clarity Retail Leader of the Year at the 24th annual Retail Week Awards, which took place in London last night.

Ann Summers CEO Jacqueline Gold picked up Retail Activist of the Year for her work with the government in championing gender equality, small businesses and for being a vocal and inspirational advocate for women in business. The Co-op was awarded the The Hermes Global Impact Award for The Co-op Way. Julian Richer, founder of Richer Sounds, was recognised with The AlixPartners Outstanding Contribution to Retail. Aldi won Best Grocer and The American Express Best Own-Brand Range for its Mamia baby product range.

Beaverbrooks walked away with The Dell Technologies Best Place to Work and Community Retailer accolades. Other winners on the night included Ocado Technology, which landed The Cognizant Digital Pioneer Award, John Lewis & Partners scooped DWF The PwC Best New Store for its experience-focused opening at Westfield White City in west London, and The Entertainer snagged The Valitor Best Retailer Under £250 million. Boxpark received Retail Destination and The Hut Group picked up the award for International Growth Retailer.

Paul Smith, Executive Vice President and General Manager at Salesforce UK, which sponsored the event, added “It’s been a year of change and disruption in the UK retail industry. But in the midst of that, the nominees and winners are the bright stars who have found new ways to stand out. The winners demonstrate incredible creativity - they have placed the customer at the centre of their innovation and business strategy and each should be very proud. These brands have set the bar high and are ultimately focused on delivering on the high expectations of today’s customers.”