While Scotland battled to a 1-1 draw with Switzerland, it was David’s Kitchen and its Managing Director Keith Fernie who secured victory at the SLR Awards last night (19 June).
Keith walked off with the prestigious Scottish Local Retailer of the Year award, while Spar David’s Kitchen Kirkcaldy was named Fresh & Chilled Retailer of the Year. Further success came when David’s Kitchen Glenrothes took the Food-to-Go gong.
David’s Kitchen pioneered the food-to-go revolution in Scotland and has been at the forefront of the category for more than a decade. SLR Publishing Editor Antony Begley said the chain – under Keith’s guidance – had “single-handedly redefined what a convenience store is and does in Scotland”.
No one store dominated this year’s event, which again saw an exceptionally strong field of finalists. With two trophies, Premier DUSA, Dundee was the evening’s top scorer, picking up the Soft Drinks Retailer of the Year award while retaining its title as Sustainability Retailer of the Year.
The Industry Achievement award went to Jonathan Kemp, who – as AG Barr’s Commercial Director – has been responsible for keeping Irn-Bru on shelves for more than 20 years. Described by Begley as “a genuinely lovely human being,” Kemp retires in September, leaving a very large hole in the Scottish convenience industry.
Spar Garthamlock manager Gerry Haughey was the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement award, recognised for a spectacular year in his store and a career consistently characterised by growth, success and achievement.
The event, which was hosted by comedian Fred MacAuley, was once again held in the Radisson blu hotel in Glasgow.
Visit the dedicated SLR Awards website for a full list of winners.
