We were delighted to be honoured recently at bira’s annual conference and awards where we were handed the ‘Best Support for Independent Retailers’ award.

The British Independent Retailer Association (bira) hold the prestigious awards annually to celebrate the very best of independent retail talent. This year the event took place at Jurys Inn, Hinckley Island, Leicestershire on Thursday 10th May.  

As a wholesaler that caters largely to independent retail businesses, we’re proud of our ‘preferred wholesaler’ status with bira and continue to work closely with them on a number of projects aimed at providing a level playing field for independents.

The award was in part due to our innovative support services, including the EKM online store that helps our independent customers to get up and running selling online with minimal effort, time and investment. We also hold an annual rebate scheme that enables our customers to claim back a percentage of their spend out of a generous £1.2 million pot.

However, we believe our main contribution is our commitment to providing top quality brands at affordable prices that allow independents to compete with nationals and online brands. Our huge range of over 45,000 products across the garden and outdoors, kitchens, electricals, bathrooms, plumbing, homewares, DIY and building sector can all be sourced at genuine wholesale prices, plus associated discounts and regular promotions.

Our Joint Managing Director, David Hibbert was on hand to pick up the award on behalf of Stax, he commented:

“This award is a special one for us as we pride ourselves on supporting the independent retailers. If there was one singular thing we want to be known for, this is it. We’re always working behind the scenes to bring new support services, as well as distribution deals, such as the one with L.G. Harris, that allow us to keep our prices as low as possible. We’ve got plenty more planned for the next 12 months, so hopefully we’ll be holding the same award again next year!”

Alan Hawkins, bira CEO spoke about the event as a whole:

“We’ve just returned from the 2018 bira conference and awards and what a truly special night. Not only was it my last as CEO, but the talent in our industry never fails to impress and amaze me. Members are doing incredible things for retail but also for their local communities and charities. Congratulations to all of our very deserving winners and runner ups, you really deserve the accolades.”

It’s another trophy to add to our cabinet that already includes Britain's Best Wholesaler 2016 (The Housewares Innovation Awards), Best DIY/Builder Merchant Buying team 2017 (glee) and many more.