Latest News
28 April, 2011
Independent Achievers Academy inspires Local Shops to Succeed
On Thursday 14th April, the Independent Achievers Academy (IAA) was launched for 2011.
During its nine month run, the IAA and its partners provide independent retailers with best practice advice that can be used in-store, aimed at improving standards in the independent sector.
Independent retailers can now enter their stores across twelve categories, each covering a core aspect of retailing. By entering into the IAA, independent retailers are able to improve and develop their businesses in the ares which affect them the most.
Owner of two Londis stores and winner of the 2010 award for Responsible Retailing, Dee Sedani, spoke at the launch of the IAA on Thursday, giving an energising speech on why he entered the award last year, and why he intends to do so again this year.
“The academy is the only contest that looks at all aspects of the business. It forces you to step up to the mark and do something different.” he said.
He explained how the awards inspire his staff to work harder to develop best practice, and described the feeling of winning last year as ”an incredible buzz that lasted for days afterwards”.
To celebrate the programme launching, Dee and the Academy team were joined by industry suppliers, symbol group representatives and other winners of the 2010 Academy, who came together to learn more about the IAA and what it offers the industry.
Renowned motivational speaker Marcus Child told the audience that it is “the tiny nice touches that really make a difference” to customers; particularly relevant for independent retailers, where great customer service is paramount in helping them win the battle for local shoppers.
The IAA continues to help retailers improve, and expert assessment by field marketing agency Field Sales Solutions (FSS) shows that entrants are improving across the board each year, paying attention to categories such as environment and health, marketing to customers and in-store theatre. Winning retailers know that in order to thrive and stand out from the crowd, they have to widen their appeal as well as continuing to invest in stock, shop and staff.
