To mark Small Business Saturday, Nadhim Zahawi MP, in partnership with TouchFM is launching a new competition to find the best independent small businesses in his constituency.
Stratford’s first ever Independent Shop Awards will celebrate the best places to eat, drink and shop in Stratford-on-Avon, with local people and businesses being asked to nominate their favourite independent businesses in each category.
Any of Nadhim’s constituents can nominate and local businesses are invited to self-nominate. The four categories are:
- Best independent shop
- Best village shop
- Best pub
- Best cafe or restaurant
Nominations close on 14 February 2015 and the winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony on 6 March 2015. A prize will also be awarded for the best nomination.
Judges will be looking at customer service, the quality of the product, local sourcing and shop front appearance.
Stratford-on-Avon residents can quickly nominate by visiting Nadhim’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/NadhimZahawi or his website: www.zahawi.com.
Commenting on the launch, Nadhim said: "Independent shops are the life and soul of our high streets. But the last few years have been tough for smaller retailers, so I think it’s time we showed them just how much we appreciate what they do.
"That’s why I’m launching Stratford-on-Avon’s first ever Independent Shop Awards. These awards are about celebrating the best places to eat, drink and shop my constituency and reminding ourselves why we love independent businesses. So if you love your local and want to help your high street please get nominating today."