Marketing

>> ‘Heroes of Retail: Not all heroes wear capes’ was the theme of this year’s event, which recognised the tremendous dedication to customers and colleagues demonstrated by retail managers across the country, as they navigated a second year of the Covid-19 crisis and the myriad challenges presented for the retail sector.

In recognition of this outstanding commitment, this year’s ceremony included a special ‘Müller Hero of the Year’ Award, presented to a store that during the pandemic has consistently gone the extra mile for its local community. Turn to page 39 to learn more about the winner, Daybreak Williamstown in Co. Galway.

Our Supreme Champion for 2021, Karl Fitzgerald of Applegreen Rathcoole, Co. Dublin, likewise stood out in the judges’ minds for the way in which he has supported his colleagues and local community throughout challenging times, boosting morale through his positive mindset. Check out our interview with Karl on pages 30 - 31.

On behalf of all the team at ShelfLife, we would like to thank everyone who entered the awards this year and say a huge congratulations to all 20 deserving winners. We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our platinum sponsor Bank of Ireland and all the sponsors of this year’s awards programme, without whom the ceremony simply would not have been possible.

Guests congratulating their colleague on a well-deserved win Donnie Christian, founder of Albyn Retail Consultancy, on stage with MC Shay Byrne ShelfLifepublisher John McDonald got the evening off to a great start

The Royal Marine Hotel in Dún Laoghaire had a great atmosphere throughout the night

RTÉ presenter, MC Shay Byrne, ensured everyone was kept in fine fettle throughout the evening

Guests were kept refreshed courtesy of Britvic Ireland with treats from Butlers Chocolates ShelfLife’sJulia O’Reilly assisting guests with the table plan

Owen Clifford, head of retail sector at Bank of Ireland, the platinum sponsor of the Grocery Management Awards 2021