The Fed’s award ceremony in Birmingham crowns 22 winners

On 18 June The Fed’s (Federation of Independent Retailers) Awards returned, with 22 retailers and stores receiving recognition for their hard work.

Held at Birmingham’s Metropole Hotel, a total of 22 awards were given out, showcasing the “entrepreneurship, passion and spirit of independent retailing.”

After winning not one but two awards, Durham Premier retailer, Andrew Board, said: “I’m simply blown away. I was even amazed to be shortlisted. This is a national award event against retailers from all across the country, there is a lot of competition out there and we’re a small convenience store in a residential area. The support and boost these awards will give to the community and staff is incredible.”

Also a winner, taking the gong for Community Retailer of the Year, Nila Patel of Milbrook Mini Mart & Post Office, Stalybridge, said: “It feels amazing to win the Community Champion of the Year. I’ve been a retailer for nearly 24 years and I’ve never entered for any awards before.

”I was inspired to enter after being encouraged by my fellow empowering women retailers, some of whom I’ve only met over the last year. They all inspired me to enter, apply and simply go for it! I’m truly honoured.”

Retailer Girish Jeeva won the prestigious Convenience Store of the Year (Symbol/Franchise) award for Girish’s Premier Barmulloch in Glasgow. He said: “This is one of the toughest categories to even be listed as a finalist in, never mind winning it! I’m truly honoured to have won this prestigious award.”

If you think your store or staff deserve an award, remember that entries for the Convenience Awards 2026 have opened this week.