Vineyards is Independent Wine Retailer of The Year

Among the 35 awards from the local family brewery were 18 Dorset charities and community groups who will receive vital funds

The Drinks Retailing Awards were held last month at London’s Dorchester Hotel. Vineyards fought off strong competition from fellow finalists The Good Wine Shop and Reserve Wines, but won the coveted accolade after impressing judges with their product range, customer service, and community engagement. The rigorous judging process is known as the toughest on the awards circuit, and it included a mystery visit and an interview with head judge Nigel Huddleston. Vineyards, owned by Hannah Wilkins and her wife Sadie, offers an extensive wine portfolio and a personalised service, and they have worked hard to make their new premises a real community hub, where locals regularly enjoy tasting evenings and workshops. Hannah says: ‘It feels absolutely surreal that our little wine shop in rural Dorset has been recognised at such a level. I started Vineyards in 2005, when I was just 24. I’ve been in the trade 25 years, and I can honestly say that that this is a career high. I love great wine, I want everyone to enjoy quality wine, I’m passionate about being independent – and to get this award in 2023, all these years later, with such fantastic national competitors, reassures me that we’re obviously doing something right. I’m not sure when it’s going to start to sink in!’

Good Retail Awards fall in love with Wimborne

Oscar season arrived early in Dorset! Wimborne BID (Business Improvement District), the notfor-profit, business-led initiative to invest money into the local economy has won the Retail District Award in the prestigious Good Retail Awards 2023.

Wimborne BID was awarded this top prize for creating an imaginative Christmas film to market the town, engaging people to support local businesses, and encouraging visits to Wimborne.

The 90-second Christmas film was called ‘Fall in Love with Wimborne this Christmas’ (see right) and featured two people meeting and falling in love in the town. Each scene was shot in front of businesses in the town, showcasing the range and diversity on offer with around 50 businesses being shown. The judges’ said: ‘Wimborne BID demonstrated a determination to reinvigorate their town. Their brilliant promotional campaign showcased retailers and shared their love for the town.’

Organized by Modern Retail, these awards celebrate retailers who are making a positive impact in their industry and aim to highlight the achievements of those who are embracing creativity and innovation to achieve retail success.

Wimborne BID emerged victorious over Brighton, Hammersmith, and Worcester BIDs to receive this top accolade at a ceremony held in Birmingham.

Delighted Wimborne BID Manager, Tammy Sleet, says: ‘This creative idea brought positive promotion for the town, showing off the fantastic range and quality of businesses in Wimborne. We are thrilled!’