Award Categories

The JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Award welcomes retail organisations to enter based on specific JEDI campaigns or initiatives.

We understand that no retailer is without its challenges, and achieving JEDI excellence is an ongoing journey, not a destination. Our focus is on recognising and celebrating those organisations that are actively working towards a more just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive retail environment. We applaud progress, commitment, and measurable improvements as retailers strive to make a positive impact in their workplaces and communities.

The Employee of the Year Award is a highly esteemed accolade recognising an individual who consistently demonstrates outstanding dedication to their role and the people they serve in the retail industry. It celebrates those often ‘unsung heroes’ who contribute significantly to their organisation’s success and foster a positive work environment.

This award encourages excellence and inspires others to create a meaningful impact in their workplace and the lives of those around them.

This award recognises and celebrates the importance of exceptional managers within the retail industry. Managers play a vital role in creating a positive and motivating work environment, inspiring their teams, and driving overall success. It encourages individuals in managerial positions to lead by example, promote teamwork, and cultivate a culture of excellence.

The Manager of the Year award highlights those who not only excel in their managerial roles but also contribute significantly to the well-being and success of their organisations.

The Team of the Year Award recognises the outstanding achievements of teams that epitomise the spirit of unity, collaboration, and collective success in the retail industry. Exceptional teams play an integral role in driving excellence, innovation, and the overarching success of their respective organisations.

This award encourages teams across various retail departments to set a benchmark for excellence by working together, sharing their unique talents, and achieving exceptional results.

This prestigious award celebrates visionary leaders in the retail industry who not only excel in their roles but also prioritise people-centric leadership. It recognises individuals who champion operational excellence while nurturing a culture that inspires, empowers, and uplifts their teams.

These exceptional leaders exemplify the fusion of sound operational strategies with a deep commitment to their people, making them a driving force in the retail world.

The Rising Spark Award is all about illuminating the path to the future of retail leadership. This recognition is dedicated to acknowledging the remarkable potential and talent exhibited by graduates, interns, and apprentices in the retail sector.

We celebrate those who have already showcased exceptional promise in their careers, identifying them as the bright sparks who will lead the retail industry to new heights.

Encouraging excellence, nurturing achievement – The People Development Team of the Year award recognises outstanding HR teams within the retail sector that have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the development and growth of their employees.

This accolade celebrates teams that have played a pivotal role in fostering a learning culture, inspiring personal and collective achievements, and ultimately contributing to the success of their organisations.

This award celebrates excellence in initiatives and campaigns that extend beyond the workplace, making a positive impact on the broader community. It specifically recognises efforts dedicated to building thriving communities through outreach and impactful social programs.

For the community, it signifies the retailer’s commitment to social responsibility and making a positive impact beyond business operations. For retailer staff, this award is a testament to their collective efforts and contributions toward building a better society. It adds a meaningful layer to their work, highlighting that they are part of an organisation that cares about making a positive difference beyond commercial success. It enhances employee morale, engagement, and pride in being associated with a company that actively contributes to the well-being of the broader community.

Examples could include:

1. Local outreach initiatives: Implementing programs that directly benefit the local community, such as partnerships with schools, charities, or community centres.
2. Sustainability projects: Engaging in environmental initiatives, like reducing carbon footprint, promoting recycling, or supporting conservation efforts.
3. Social impact causes: Launching campaigns that support social issues, such as poverty, education for underprivileged communities, or healthcare access.
4. Employee volunteerism: Supporting staff in participating in volunteer activities or community service projects during work hours.
5. Community events/partnerships: Organising or sponsoring events that bring the community together, supporting local businesses and enhancing community cohesion.

The Store Champion/Team of the Year award recognises exceptional individuals or teams within the retail industry who excel at delivering outstanding customer service. This accolade is dedicated to those who consistently go above and beyond, transforming everyday interactions into extraordinary experiences.

By honouring these champions, this award serves as a source of inspiration for the entire retail sector, emphasising the importance of customer satisfaction and employee engagement in achieving higher levels of success and customer loyalty.

The Customer Services Team of the Year award recognises and celebrates the pivotal role that customer service plays in shaping a retailer’s reputation, success, and overall customer satisfaction. It is dedicated to both in-house and outsourced customer service teams that have demonstrated excellence in navigating the complex realm of customer service.

This award emphasises the importance of delivering exceptional customer experiences. In an era where customers have countless choices, it highlights those individuals or teams that consistently go the extra mile to ensure customers feel valued and heard. It also recognises the role of team spirit and collaboration in creating memorable customer interactions.

The Spirit of Excellence Award, a distinguished honour chosen exclusively through nominations from both industry professionals and our esteemed PiRA Ambassadors, pays tribute to individuals, teams, or retailers who have made extraordinary contributions to the realm of retail. They stand out as true champions of retail excellence, whether through their exceptional service, mentorship, or inspirational leadership.

These individuals and teams serve as beacons of inspiration, motivating others to reach their full potential. Their unwavering determination and dedication uplift those around them and create an environment of continuous improvement.

We invite you to nominate individuals or teams who have a remarkable story to share. Have they demonstrated extraordinary kindness, provided a unique and delightful customer experience, or delivered unforgettable moments of excellence?

• The judging panel will also nominate candidates they believe exemplify the spirit of retail excellence.
• The judging panel will assess the impact the nominee’s efforts have had on the wider retail community, showcasing their contributions to fostering a thriving industry.

The Retail Employer of the Year award is a distinguished recognition for companies that exemplify excellence in creating an outstanding workplace for their employees. Going above and beyond, these organisations are committed to fostering not only professional development but also employee well-being, collaboration, and support.

With a strong people-first ethos, they are leaders in aligning their actions with values, making them stand out in the retail industry. These retailers are dedicated to building a better workplace that prioritises the holistic growth and satisfaction of their employees.

The Retail Partner of the Year award is designed for companies or partners that provide services and products supporting retailers with a people-first ethos. These partners have a deep commitment to creating a better world and a positive impact. Rooted in their DNA is a genuine care for the well-being of people and a dedication to building a better place for everyone to thrive.

Their commercial success is intricately linked to their mission of constructing a better environment for others to prosper. This award celebrates innovative solutions, exceptional services, and relentless support, all aimed at empowering retailers to adapt and thrive in our rapidly evolving landscape.

Emphasising their dedication to building a better future for the retail industry, this accolade underscores the principle that “people matter” at the heart of every endeavour.

The Retail Association of the Year award pays homage to the remarkable contributions of industry bodies, associations, or organisations that have consistently provided unwavering support, valuable resources, and tireless advocacy for retailers.

It recognises their relentless dedication to empower and elevate the retail industry, emphasising their pivotal role in creating a stronger, more prosperous, and inclusive retail community.

Advocacy, training, offering a voice, lobbying for better – are essential facets of their work, along with their profound industry impact.