Bradley’s Supermarket named UK’s best convenience store

Jack Matthews’ Bradley’s Supermarkets Rothley in Loughborough has been named as the UK’s best independent convenience store by the Independent Achievers Academy (IAA).

More than 1,200 stores engaged with the IAA’s store-improvement programme, with test visits, benchmarking assessments and a panel of retailer, symbol group and supplier judges to determine the top-performers.

The scheme is run by Better Retailing publisher Newtrade Media.

Head of events Samantha Gunston said the store “stood out due to the impressive footfall and sales increases since it was refitted late last year”.

She added: “The judges felt it was a store that they’d want on their doorsteps and were impressed with Jack’s focus on local and fresh, and how he has made a success of the refill zone, all of which gives the store a much more balanced and healthier look.”

Speaking to Better Retailing, Matthews said: “Retail can be a lonely place, the recognition has put a real spring in my step.

“What has meant the most to me since the refit is putting the store at the heart of the community and giving them a shop to be proud of.”

A list of the IAA’s category stars and their top tips for store owners, plus a full profile of Matthews’ store, can be found on the links below.

IAA 2022-23 Category Stars

Click the category links below to find out more on why the retailers were recognised and take some tips away to implement in your own store