OR the second year running, supermarket Waitrose has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘Retailer of the Year’ by the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC).
Sponsored by leading independent wine importer PLB Group Ltd, the title celebrates innovation in retailing wines and spirits, as well as the quality of the supermarket’s range.
This year, for the first time, judging included an online consumer survey where comments praised Waitrose’s promotions in-store; its great range of quality products, helpful staff and commitment to the environment.
Waitrose’s head of wines, beers, spirits and tobacco buying, Pierpaolo Petrassi, said: “We’re thrilled to have been recognised with this award which is the icing on the cake of a very successful year. Our focus on English wine, glass light-weighting and spirits have all helped us to achieve this fantastic award and we look forward to leading from the front with plans for wine, beers and spirits innovation from our excellent team in the next year.”
IWSC’s marketing manager David Kelly said: “We found a worthy winner in Waitrose. With four Masters of Wine among its buying team, exemplary environmental credentials and top-notch customer service, not to mention exceedingly well thought-out selections, Waitrose stood out among a venerable crowd. Waitrose makes an enormous effort to welcome the consumer; it not only has a great strategy, but the best implementation of that strategy.”
Judges included food and wine journalist Patricia Langton, Patrick Schmitt from the Drinks Business along with representatives from the PLB and IWSC. Previous winners have included Sainsbury’s (2009) and Tesco (2008).
Judging included a number of store visits by the panel who were impressed by the store’s range of products including marmalade vodka.
The award was announced at the IWSC’s banquet at London’s Guildhall on November 16. The shortlist included Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Lidl and Sainsbury’s.
To see the photo gallery from the event please click here
For further information, please contact:
David Kelly, Marketing Manager
Tel: +44 (0) 1483 542 707
