More than 650 suppliers, wholesalers and service providers gathered in Liverpool this week for the Unitas Connect Awards, the group’s annual celebration of the outstanding people, products, initiatives and achievements of the past year.
The awards evening, a highlight in the buying group’s packed calendar of member and supplier events, was hosted this year by TV presenter and comedian, Paddy McGuinness. The awards follow the first day of the Unitas Wholesale trade show, connect25, which saw record attendance from members and suppliers alike, with thousands of products on promotion as part of the two-day event.
As always, during the event Unitas Wholesale raised money for its chosen charity, Bluebell Wood, a Doncaster-based children’s hospice, raising more than £20,000.
This year’s award winners are:
MEMBER’S EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: Jay Gore, Robinsons
Sponsored by Molson Coors
The judges said:
Jay has helped the business go from strength to strength, building a highly qualified team, improving efficiencies and developing great relationships with suppliers and customers. He has also positively impacted local businesses, defended local culture and maintained the local economy.
RISING STAR OF THE YEAR: Lee Bindley, Regal Wholesale
Sponsored by Molson Coors
The judges said:
Professional and passionate about wholesale, Lee displays dedication, skill and a proactive approach which has driven a 50% increase in supplier investment over the past three years and improved stock turnover performance by 40%. Lee has also introduced a range of innovative solutions to improve efficiencies right across the business.
ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY AWARD: JW Filshill
Sponsored by CCEP
The judges said:
JW Filshill has implemented its sustainability strategy through numerous innovative initiatives, not only investing in its own operations and workforce but actively engaging with suppliers and customers to ensure all aspects of the supply chain are considered.
DIGITAL INNOVATION AWARD: Direct Line Supplies
Sponsored by Carlsberg Britvic
The judges said:
We’re observing brands utilising AI to innovate their marketing by combining storytelling, personalisation and nostalgia with cutting-edge tools. Direct line Supplies’ use of AI to provide tailored solutions to customers is highly impressive.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION AWARD: Wanis International
Sponsored by Weetabix
The judges said:
Wanis International actively celebrates diversity within the workplace, embracing its rich blend of backgrounds and broad range of ages and embracing diversity as a strength when serving customers and the community. Talent within the business is recognised and nurtured on the basis of ability and potential, and this powerfully inclusive culture is recognised by both employees and customers in satisfaction scores.
STANDARD AND SPECIALIST MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Regal Wholesale
Sponsored by Inspire Field Marketing
The judges said:
Through its onboarding of Reckitt, Regal Wholesale demonstrates what true collaboration and partnership looks like, particularly through investment in their people and digital, all culminating in a phenomenal year-on-year sales increase.
ON TRADE MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Small Beer
Sponsored by Britvic
The judges said:
This wholesaler’s keen participation in Unitas Wholesale events and programmes is reflected in good scores across the board from suppliers. A new digital wines portfolio has resulted in double-digit growth, streamlining the management of new, current and delisted ranges.
FOODSERVICE MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Failte Foods
Sponsored by Tate & Lyle
Scoring highly for collaboration with suppliers, this multi-season business has seen exceptional growth in a challenging market, while investing in its premises and people.
RETAIL MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Parfetts
Sponsored by Nestle Confectionery
Praised by suppliers for its collaboration, innovation and development, Parfetts has continued to challenge itself and the status quo. The result has been a significant expansion of its retail symbol estate, and the successful integration of the Birmingham branch.
SUPPLIER AWARDS
Foodservice Own Brand Product of the Year: Whitby Seafoods Ltd – CK Breaded Scampi
Retail Own Brand Product of the Year: Aston Manor Brewery – Black Storm 500ml
Brand Campaign of the Year: Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I – Blucozade Campaign
Service Provider of the Year: TWC Group
On-Trade Supplier of the Year: Molson Coors Brewing Company
Foodservice Supplier of the Year: Unilever Food Solutions
Licensed Supplier of the Year: Concha Y Toro UK
Impulse Supplier of the Year: KP Snacks Ltd
Grocery Supplier of the Year: Princes Foods Ltd
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