WINTER 2007/08 NEWSLETTER

Results Are Under Wraps

MOST of the results are now in for the wholesaler categories of Achievers 2008. The supporting suppliers have completed their scoring and the independent judges have scrutinised and verified the results, often visiting entrants to see for themselves the extremely high standards attained by cash & carries and delivered wholesalers in Scotland. Meanwhile, the three supplier awards are also reaching their conclusion. Following a very close contest, the winner of the Best Marketing Initiative has been decided by members of STAG and CLAN. The judging process culminated in face-to-face meetings with the panel; these involved final presentations by the entrants and question-and-answer sessions. Verbal feedback has already been given to entrants, and this will be followed up with written remarks after the awards dinner.

For the Best Advertising Campaign, voting is taking place this month on the shortlist (see page 32 of Cash & Carry Management: December for details). Similarly, the Best Overall Service category is in the final round. SWA executive director Kate Salmon commented: “Once again, we have sent those companies in the Top 20 a monthly breakdown of their scores, enabling them to review their service and tackle any weaknesses. By including the names of all wholesalers who vote, suppliers have been able to contact them directly.” She added: “We are very pleased with the response from wholesalers and would like to thank them for meticulously completing the forms.” Kate stated that the efforts of all the judges are greatly appreciated by the Association. “This year, the results are in earlier than usual, thanks to the hard work of all involved. The time commitment is substantial but essential, as the

thorough judging process is one of the factors that makes Achievers stand head and shoulders above other industry award schemes.” The SWA is making the final preparations for the prestigious Achievers awards dinner, which takes place at the Sheraton Grand, Edinburgh, on 24 January.

Sponsors of the event include:
• Diageo – champagne
• Anheuser-Busch – beer
• Whyte & Mackay – whisky

The evening will begin at 6.30pm with a champagne reception in the Banqueting Foyer, followed at 7.15pm with dinner and the awards presentation in the Edinburgh Suite. Dress is black tie. Demand for tickets has been exceptional and the event is now sold out. For further information, contact Kate on 0131-556 8753.