SWA unveils independent judging panel for Achievers awards

With judging of the Scottish Wholesale Association’s Achievers awards now under way, the organisation has unveiled its independent judging panel.

In a change of strategy from previous years, the independent judges will collectively review every category to ensure consistency across the awards. Previously, judges with a range of specialisms were assigned specific categories.

Ton Christiaanse, one of the independent judges.

The panel comprises:

• Ton Christiaanse, non-executive chairman of Country Range Group and former CEO of Brakes.

• Professor Anne Marie Doherty, chair of the Academy of Marketing and head of the department of marketing at the University of Strathclyde.

• Professor Leigh Sparks, professor of retail studies and deputy principal of the University of Stirling.

• Ylva Haglund, campaigns manager for food waste reduction at Zero Waste Scotland.

• Alison Nimmo, employer engagement manager at Capita.

SWA chief executive Colin Smith said: “I am delighted that our group of experts is on board as their expertise and high standing in their own sectors enhances the credibility of Achievers and brings a fresh perspective to each awards category.

“Their involvement will allow us to provide greater feedback to entrants on benchmarking their performance and practices against their peers and also against other business sectors. One of the aims of Achievers to apply best practice from others, share information and be inspired to introduce or develop new ideas.”

With a 33% rise in the total number of entries and nearly 50% of those from SWA members that have joined the association during the past 18 months, Achievers has struck a chord with wholesalers who want to recognise the efforts and commitment of their staff during a difficult 17 months.

As well as shining a spotlight on the efforts of Scotland’s wholesalers, the SWA is recognising the lengths that suppliers and their employees have gone to in supporting businesses and communities throughout the pandemic. As such, there are five awards for suppliers, in addition to the 12 awards for wholesalers.

“The SWA is also extremely grateful to our sponsoring suppliers, including those supporting Achievers for the first time,” Smith added.

The gala dinner and awards presentation will take place at the Sheraton Grand, Edinburgh, on 10 February 2022. Tables can be booked by contacting kate@scottishwholesale.co.uk

Tel: Scottish Wholesale Association 0131-556 8753