Wholesalers are looking for independent retailers who display top quality community engagement to showcase to MPs.

In the latest development of the My Shop is Your Shop (MSYS) campaign, selected retailers will have the opportunity to demonstrate to local MPs the good work they do in their communities and how they have created a hub for their neighbourhood.

Stores that demonstrate a strong community engagement will also be presented with a MSYS Gold Award during the MP's visit. Federation of Wholesale Distributors (FWD) chief executive James Bielby said the campaign was designed to highlight the good work retailers are doing in their community. “By establishing this benchmark of engaged retailing, we hope to give these stores a boost locally, and by inviting the local MP to present the Gold Award, these progressive retailers can impress them with their contribution to both the local economy and the life of the community,” he said.

The initiative is part of the MSYS campaign revamp that includes a new look and revised strategy to promote the community role played by independent stores and to introduce new customers to the value of shopping locally.

To qualify, stores must demonstrate a proven track record of community engagement, including support for local charities and sports teams, involvement with community groups, local authorities and the police, positive action to tackle anti-social behaviour and examples of staff members willingness to go beyond the requirements of their role to help customers and neighbours.

Retailers can nominate themselves on the MSYS homepage.