Benchmarking your business – and not solely relying on your symbol group – is crucial to drive growth, urged retailers who have successfully worked with the Independent Achievers Academy (IAA).

Bay Bashir, of Belle Vue Convenience in Middlesbrough, has been a part of the IAA for five years and has seen his business grow as a result.

Speaking at an IAA study day in Peterborough last week, he said: “It’s shown me how to increase sales in areas that were under performing. It highlights the weakest part of my store but, first and foremost, it’s about improving.

“It’s about getting the best advice and trying to implement that in your store.”

Through using the IAA’s 2016 benchmarking process, Mr Bashir identified social media as an area to focus on. He admitted he finds it “hard work” but has now passed it on to his staff. “It’s key to not think you know everything and accept sometimes you need to delegate things,” he said.

He believes it is vital for retailers to participate in benchmarking to improve their businesses.

“Symbols have their own objectives but the IAA is about you. There is no agenda, it’s simply to improve your store and make it the best you can,” said Mr Bashir.

“It’s important to make sure I’m benchmarking my store and making sure it’s moving forward.”

Last year’s Overall Best Shop recipient Amish Shingadia, of Londis Caterways in Horsham, said he found information from the IAA and his symbol group complement one another. However, he said: “The IAA provides a brand new level of scrutiny which you’re unable to access through your symbol group alone.”

This year he plans to “out-do” his 2016 achievements and is currently seeing his store through a refit.