A province-wide event, the 2008 Awards consisted of three separate local heats – Newry, Londonderry and Belfast. Judging in two categories took place 1)best independent retailer and 2)best chain/multiple retailer, over the past few weeks.

The aim of the competition was to identify those retailers in Northern Ireland which offer a customer-focused and quality service. Entrants were assessed by “Mystery Shoppers”.

There were a large number of entries from all local Newry businesses and the standard was extremely high.

The winners of the Newry competition in the best independent retailer category were:

• 1st Place – Dali Boutique
• 2nd Place – The Good Food Shop
• 3rd Place – Timoney Travel

The winners of the Newry competition in the best chain/multiple retailer category were:

• 1st Place – Holland & Barratt
• 2nd Place – Oasis
• 3rd Place – Viyella & O’Briens Sandwich Bar (joint winners)

Dali Boutique and Holland & Barratt will now go forward to the Northern Ireland Final and will attend the Awards Ceremony hosted by Junior Chamber Londonderry at a banquet in the City Hotel.