Deadline extended to enter retail industry awards

The awards are to “recognise the country’s best retail talent across 14 categories, from star apprentices to top-notch buyers and marketers who demonstrate initiative, aptitude and ambition in their roles,” and the deadline to enter has been extended to Friday 25 May 2012.

Retailers are being reminded not to miss this opportunity to put forward those who have made a significant contribution to their business, for this unique chance to be named a rising star.

The shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend a ceremony at London’s Grosvenor House hotel on 5 September 2012, at which Dragon’s Den star, chairman of Ryman Stationery and owner of Boux Avenue, Theo Paphitis, will appear.

Anne Seaman, chief executive of Skillsmart Retail, said: “We have had entries from all over the country and all sorts of retailers, from high street to independent shops; employers are showing genuine gratitude to their staff by nominating the most talented to become a rising star. We have decided to extend the deadline to ensure we get even more outstanding entrants and to give retailers a final chance to get their applications in.

“We welcome applications from retailers of all sizes and all areas of the sector. We hope to get as many entries as possible to be able to find the best people working in this great industry!”

From the 14 category winners, one will then be singled out and named the Rising Star of the Year. Shortlisted entrants will be interviewed in July by a team of retail experts including Tesco and BHS.

For more information, visit www.skillsmartretail.com/risingstarsawards