The Categories

Shop Layout

Getting your layout right will drive footfall and sales, guide your customers around the store and increase impulse purchases.

Responsible Retailing

Making sure you sell age-restricted products such as tobacco and alcohol responsibly can safeguard your livelihood and help you appear more trustworthy.

Merchandising

Good merchandising is the key to driving impulse sales. Using planograms to group products together will make your shop easy to use and ensure your space is well used.

Effective Ranging

Focusing on national bestsellers, with a small amount of space set aside for new lines, will satisfy shoppers and maximise sales.

Availability

If an item that a customer wants isn't in stock, they're likely to go elsewhere. Good availability of top-selling brands is essential in a successful shop.

Retail Innovation

A good shop layout will guide customers to core categories and gain further impulse sales. It is instrumental for both footfall and sales.

Customer Service

Friendly staff who know your customers by name will set your store apart from the competition and keep your shoppers loyal.

In-store Theatre

Lively displays and seasonal events will grab customers' attention and make your store a talking point. Find out how to attract shoppers with in-store theatre

Environment & Sustainability

Doing your bit for the environment will give your business extra appeal to your customers, and save you money in the process.

Marketing to Customers

If no one knows about your products, promotions and services, will customers choose your store over the competition? Imaginative marketing will help you stand out from the crowd.

Service to the Community

Additional services such as home news delivery, sports teams sponsorship and charity work make your store a talking point in your community.

Staff Development

Investing in your staff is money well spent. Train them, motivate them and value them and you will be investing in the long-term happiness of business.

What is the Independent Achievers Academy?

The Independent Achievers Academy is a business development and recognition programme for independent retailers. As well as rewarding outstanding achievements in the independent retail sector; it provides retailers with invaluable advice on what is required to achieve the highest standards.

Authoritative Industry Advice

In its first five years the Independent Achievers Academy has helped hundreds of local shopkeepers and their staff to grow their sales and profits. Unlike other programmes for independent retailers, the Academy is about the future, helping you to improve your shop. We work with leading industry suppliers to give you best practice advice across 12 core areas of your business. Our advice is designed to be implemented and to make a real difference for you.

Reward and Recognition

Taking part in the Academy also provides you with a way to recognise your staff. Our expert shoppers have made unannounced visits to hundreds of independent shops to check up on the customer offer. If you are chosen for a visit, you will get a feedback report. If you make the top 100 ranking, you will get a chance to tell your shoppers how good their local shop is. Feedback from participants say this helps sales as well as being very well received by shoppers.

How do I get involved?

1. Read the tips in the Guide to Better Sales and Profits – online or call us and order a copy today
2. Complete the entry form, telling us what you do well
3. Follow the advice in Retail Newsagent and Retail Express. If you do not receive copies of either publication, call us today on 020 7689 3369 and we will send you a free copy.