Sales Assistant Awards

Convenience Store

Convenience Store is the leading magazine for the neighbourhood retailing sector. Covering the activities of independent stores, symbol-affiliated outlets and convenience chains, it is the must-read title to know what is going on at ground level in the thriving convenience store industry. Each issue of Convenience Store contains a relevant and informative mixture of industry news, in-depth features, store profiles, surveys, new products and business advice backed up by the industry’s leading independent helpline Dear Jac and our award-winning campaigning stance. Our recent editorial programme has included features ranging from what’s new in the fresh & chilled product category to how to handle shoplifters to how to make your store more energy-efficient. www.convenience-store.co.uk/

JTI

Japan Tobacco International (JTI) is the international tobacco division of Japan Tobacco Inc., the world's third largest global tobacco company. Since April 2007 Gallaher Limited has also formed part of JTI. Our key brands in the UK are Benson & Hedges, Silk Cut, Camel, Mayfair, Sterling, Hamlet Cigars and Amber Leaf rolling tobacco. We have a well established reputation for supporting retailers across all channels and are delighted to support the Sales Assistant of the Year Awards for the 10th year running which recognises, encourages and rewards sales assistants who aim to give their customers a first class service. www.jti.com

P & G

P&G recognises that effective and enthusiastic sales assistants are an essential element in a successfully run and profitable convenience store. As part of its commitment to convenience retailers across the UK, P&G helps retailers through its ShelfHelp programme. The programme offers advice on ranging, merchandising and in-store display, as well as ensuring that staff are not only well trained, but also knowledgeable about the products they stock. Paul Lettice, Trade Communications Manager for P&G said, "The UK convenience channel is a vital part of the retail landscape and great sales assistants are key to the channel's success. We wish all the entrants the very best of luck with the awards and we look forward to celebrating their successes at the Convenience Store Sales Assistant of the Year awards 2009." www.pg.com

General Mills

“We are delighted to be associated with the Sales Assistant of the Year Awards for the third year running and would like to wish the 2009 entrants the very best of luck,” says Liam Ward, Channel Director – Convenience and Impulse for General Mills UK. “We recognise the fantastic contribution these people, who excel in customer service, make to the success of a convenience outlet. These Awards honour those individuals that aim to improve the retail experience for shoppers every day, creating an environment that is helpful, welcoming and that people want to return to time and time again. “The efforts of these individuals are fully appreciated by suppliers such as ourselves, because the UK convenience channel is an integral part of the General Mills UK business and we acknowledge the long-term contribution these unsung heroes can make to the success of our brands.” http://www.generalmills.com/corporate/index.aspx

Mars

Mars Chocolate UK is proud to sponsor the Convenience Store Sales Assistant of the Year Awards as part of its commitment to recognising the outstanding work that Convenience Store retailers do every day. Independent and convenience retailers have worked tirelessly over the last twelve months, continuing to raise standards of customer service and professionalism across the channel and it is only right that they should be celebrated for this. Founded in 1911, Mars produces some of the world’s leading confectionery under many of the world's most recognizable trademarks, such as MARS®, SNICKERS®, MILKY WAY® and M&M'S®. Mars Chocolate continues to work alongside retailers to support them in this ever changing economic environment. For further information please email: bep.sandhu@eu.effem.com www.mars.com