Top UK retail award for Downpatrick family butchers

Wilson’s Family Butchers has won the Northern Ireland regional category in the influential Farm Shop and Deli Retailer of the Year Awards 2021.

The butchers, based in Downpatrick, county Down, impressed a panel of expert judges for transforming its business into "a real asset to the community".

Coleman’s Farm Shop in Templepatrick, county Antrim, part of an extensive nursery and garden centre complex, was also commended by the judges.

The awards, held in partnership with The Grocer and sponsored by Garofalo and Food and Drink Wales, changed the judging criteria this year to shine the spotlight on those retailers who deserve recognition for their courageous commitment shown to their customers, community, staff and suppliers.

Broadcasting celebrity Nigel Barden, chairman of the judges, commenting on the Northern Ireland butchers, said: "I'm so impressed by all the work that has been done here to turn the business around. In such a short space of time the business was completely transformed and modernised to create a real asset to the community.

"Charities and the local community have been looked after and online opportunities have been maximised, but he hasn't strayed from the heart of what a great local butcher should be. Absolutely heart-warming work.”

Commenting on their success, Wilsons Family Butchers said: "We won folks, still can't believe it. We are super proud of all the staff for all their work and especially thankful to all of you for the support you show us every week.

Mr Barden added: “We are all aware that the past 15 months have been like no other and that the traditional retail world of food and drink has dramatically changed. The Farm Shop & Deli finalists have illustrated how crucial they are to their communities at a time when many consumers remained in their homes.

"This includes dedicated online businesses which have witnessed huge growth during these difficult times, and traditional retailers who increased their online offer.

"But it’s the stories of innovation and imagination way beyond these that took our judges’ breath away. Florists who became greengrocers, farmers who loaded their trailers to deliver to the vulnerable, providing a human face and voice to the isolated.

"The food offer from our finalists has been sublime while the consideration of mental health and well-being for customers and staff has been paramount.

"It has put independent retailers right back in the heart of their communities, with an increased appreciation from grateful shoppers. It’s been a privilege to read some of these stories and to now be able to tell the world about these remarkably dedicated people."

The awards recognise the highest levels of service, product knowledge, initiative, innovation and community involvement, offered by our heroes of the high-street.