IWSC Independent Retailer of the Year Award 2013 announced Could you be #iwscbestindie?
IWSC Independent Retailer of the Year Award 2013 announced
Could you be #iwscbestindie?
THIS week sees the launch of the International Wine and Spirit Competition’s (IWSC) quest to find the UK’s best independent wine and spirits retailer.
Now in its fifth year, the prestigious award – sponsored by leading distributor PLB – recognises the role played by independent merchants in encouraging the understanding, and sales, of quality wines and spirits.
Last year the title went jointly to Quaff Wines and Duncan Murray Wines; the year before hangingditch wine merchants, an independent wine specialist in Manchester, picked up the coveted trophy.
IWSC’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Anna Grant, said: “While the IWSC is known around the world for awarding medals to the very best wines and spirits, we are aware of the vital work performed by independent wine merchants. It is their knowledge and enthusiasm which encourages consumers to experiment with wine, try different varieties, and gain a deeper knowledge of wines and spirits.”
Retailers are judged on the quality and diversity of their range, quality of service, including sharing knowledge and enthusiasm with consumers and the quality of their display. This year, nominees will also have to show their commitment to engaging customers through social media and other online channels.
PLB’s Managing Director Peter Darbyshire said: "We are delighted to be able to support an award that acknowledges the level of commitment and the effort made by our independent retail customers to provide the best possible customer experience in-store and online, promoting quality and diversity, and demonstrating a real point of difference, set against a challenging and competitive market place."
While retailers enter the competition themselves, customers vote for their favourite online (at www.iwsc.net). After voting closes the top independents are judged by a panel of industry experts.
The deadline for initial entries from retailers is July 22, with the first-stage shortlist – all of which will be sent campaign packs – announced a week later. Customers have until September to vote for their favourite retailer, all votes will be entered into a prize draw for a mixed case of wine. After the votes are counted a final shortlist is revealed with the judging of the final four taking place shortly after.
The winner will be announced at the IWSC Awards Banquet at the Guildhall on November 13.
Follow the competition and join in the conversation at #iwscbestindie.
For more information contact:
Anna Grant
IWSC Head of Sales and Marketing
Tel: +44 (0) 20 3 176 6460
Editors’ notes:
The International Wine & Spirit Competition
The IWSC was founded in 1969 and is the premier competition of its kind in the world. Its aim is to promote the quality and excellence of the world's best wines, spirits and liqueurs. All entries of wines, spirits and liqueurs are blind tasted in groups divided by variety, region and vintage as necessary.
PLB
PLB is now in its 30th year of importing wines, spirits and beers from around the world. The company has a dedicated team working with UK independent merchants, sourcing and supplying the perfect offering, via a recently revised portfolio of around 350 wines - from entry-level to premium wines both classic and niche – the majority of which are exclusive to this sector.
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