Vote for shining stars in Rotherham Retailer Awards

THIS month sees the launch of ‘Independent Retailer Month’, a national campaign to promote the benefits of shopping locally. With over 150 independent businesses in the town centre, Rotherham town centre is right behind the campaign.

It is estimated that for every £1 spent locally, 50p to 70p is circulated back into the local economy.

As such, advisory cabinet member for housing and the local economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott, is encouraging everyone to back the town’s retailers.

She said: “Our independent businesses are what make our town stand out and give shoppers a reason to choose Rotherham.

“Those businesses need the support of the residents; the town belongs to us all and together we can continue to make it thrive.

“I’d encourage shoppers, old and new, to support Independent Retailer Month and help keep money within Rotherham's economy.”

The ‘Retailer Awards 2015’ has six awards up for grabs. Recognising shoppers’ favourite Independent Retailer, Market Trader, Hair & Beauty Business and Food & Drink Establishment, the awards will also reward the business offering the most “Outstanding Customer Service” as well as crowning one town employee as winner of the “Shining Star” award.

Shoppers voting also get the chance to state what they love about Rotherham and be in with a chance to win one of two stunning paintings by of the town by local artist Chris Slater or a hamper of town centre goodies worth £100.

Retail investment manager, Bernadette Rushton, feels the awards will give shoppers and residents the opportunity to get involved and talk positively about the town centre:

“We hear so many people walking round the town, talking about how they are genuinely surprised by the changes and making complimentary comments about both our long-standing and new retailers,” she said.

“This promotion gives people to chance to tell us what they love, what they are proud of and help recognise the hard working shopkeepers who are going the extra mile to make our town different.”

It couldn’t be easier to vote with cut-out coupons printed in each edition of the Rotherham Advertiser throughout July which can be returned by post or dropped off at one of the town centre collection points. Shoppers can also vote online