The branch manager of Waitrose, Saffron Walden, says the store is “incredibly proud” to have won at this year’s inaugural Uttlesford Business Awards.
The supermarket took home Retailer of the Year at the ceremony this summer, and also came runner-up for the Employer of the Year and Business in the Community awards.
“We’re incredibly proud, it’s testament to the hard work and dedication of our team here,” Jim Brewin, branch manager, said.
“We were shortlisted alongside brilliant local companies - Design Essentials in Saffron Walden and Rose Garden in Dunmow, both of whom are just two local examples of great service delivered well.
“We work very hard to offer our customers great food and service. We have a huge range of choice - from high quality pre-packed goods to food counters with fresh meat, fish, continental specialities and artisan cheeses. Aside from picking up their shopping, our customers can also relax in our cafe and enjoy a treat from our bakery - so we really do serve a wide range of needs.”
Waitrose, which opened in the town in 1986, is community-focused and shares £1,000 a month between three local good causes, as voted for by customers using the ‘green token’ scheme.
The store also has more than 200 partners in the team.
Asked what the secret is to keeping such an operation running so well, Mr Brewin said: “It starts and ends with our partners who work together as a team to ensure we provide the best service for our customers.
“I feel very lucky to work with such dedicated people who regularly go above and beyond.”
Mr Brewin, who has been at the store since last January, said Waitrose has adapted to the way shopping has changed and what customers want.
“Shopping once a week with a big trolley has been replaced with more frequent shops, with customers looking for ‘food to go’ and ‘food for now’. As such, we’ve added a wider range of meals to our shop to cater for those looking for a delicious and quick dinner option.”
The supermarket also offers online services and has hand-held devices in-store for customers to scan their shopping.
Self-scan tills are available too.
Looking forward, Mr Brewin said his team are preparing for the Christmas season and will continue to increase levels of service.
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