With some 400 retailers and gift suppliers packing into the Grosvenor House Ballroom last Thursday (May 17), this year’s Greats gift retailer Awards was certainly a glittering occasion.
“The winners of The Greats 2018 reflected the enormous diversity and vibrancy within the gift retailing arena, celebrating those who have shown entrepreneurial flair and responded magnificently to the changing retailing landscape,” commented Ian Hyder, joint managing director of Max Publishing, which owns and organises The Greats.
The full list of winners can be found here.
The event, which took on a ‘Greats’ Gatsby theme, was hosted by comedian/songwriter and improviser Pippa Evans, who delighted the audience with her specially written witty ditty entitled ‘Your local gift shop’ that was spot on in content as well as jazzy in its pace.
It was a ‘golden’ afternoon for Joe Davies, which won the Gold trophy in the coveted Best Service to the Independent Gift Retailer category. Widdop and Co was awarded the Silver trophy while Parlane won the Bronze award.
In addition, there was a standing ovation for John Athwal, founder and managing director of Premier Decorations, who was presented with the prestigious Honorary Achievement award.
A raffle held during the event also raised £3,680 for The Light Fund charity.
Top: The Greats team get ready to welcome guests to a glass of bubbly at The Greats 2018. Shown from left to right are: Jakki Brown, Sue Marks, Angie Bryant and Ian Hyder.
Here GiftsandHome.net shares a taster the memorable afternoon.
You can also check out all the pictures from the day by clicking here.
