Judges hail Fylde coast ahead of retail and leisure awards

Sponsored by Lefton’s, the awards have been formulated to provide a platform to recognise, reward and celebrate all the successful retail and leisure destinations, and the people who work within them, across the Fylde Coast.

Entries can be accepted from owners of businesses, managers, employees or customers and aim to highlight a business’s growth, innovation or a contribution to the community, a manager or team member committed to excellence.

The judges are Gary Lovatt, non-operational director of the Federation of Small Businesses, Philip Welsh, head of visitor economy at Blackpool Council, Claire Jamieson, Blackpool and The Fylde College’s director of business development, and Gillian Parkinson, Johnston Press’ North West editorial director.

Gary Lovatt said: “The leisure and retail sectors are clearly part of the very DNA of Blackpool and the Fylde Coast. It is right that we should highlight the best businesses and best practice in these awards.

“Our high streets are a major provider of employment, despite the well documented challenges they face, and their enduring value to the local economy should never be underestimated. There are many examples out there of innovative approach and passion for customer service which deserve to be rewarded.

“The Fylde coast has an unrivalled array of leisure businesses and expertise and my fellow judges and I will be looking forward to hearing their stories.”

Shortlisted nominees will be invited to a glittering gala presentation evening at Viva Blackpool on Wednesday, November 22, 2017, when the winners will be announced.

Categories include, Fashion Store of the Year, Retailer of the Year (Non-Fashion), New Retailer of the Year, Bar/Restaurant of the Year, Hair/Beauty Business of the Year, Leisure Venue of the Year, Customer Service Award, Team Member of the Year, Manager of the Year and Community Champions Award.