SISTERS BOUTIQUE, FALKIRK, WINNER AT DRAPERS INDEPENDENTS AWARDS 2014
SISTERS BOUTIQUE has won in the YOUNG FASHION INDEPENDENT OF THE YEAR at the Drapers Independents Awards 2014, in recognition of the work of entrepreneurial independent business owner, Lauren Ferguson.
The deserving winners of the Drapers Independents Awards 2014 were announced at a celebratory reception and luncheon on 17 September at The Brewery, London
The Drapers Independents Awards have put the UK’s independent fashion retail sector firmly on the map, bringing together the very best of the industry for a glittering luncheon of recognition, celebration and networking. With 15 categories, the awards covered a wide range of achievements in fashion retailing.
After review by a panel of judges, made up of influential figures and experts from the independent retail sector, SISTERS BOUTIQUE won in celebration of Young Fashion Independents. Of our victor, the judges said “The shops look really amazing. The business really engages with their target audience, it is just tremendous, it really stands out.
Lauren Ferguson, owner, comments, “This is a dream come true for me and my team and a massive reward for 18 years of blood, sweat and tears, building the business up from nothing to become Scotland’s Best Young Fashion destination in a town which has been hammered by the recession, online trading and retail parks. I am beyond proud of this achievement and it means the world to me to be respected by others in the industry that I have the highest admiration for.”
The Drapers Independents Awards, one of the largest events of its kind, showcased some of the UK’s most entrepreneurial individuals and the most innovative retail businesses at a time when the giants of fashion retail are suffering falling sales and a lack of consumer confidence.
Research from The Local Data Company (LDC) shows, independents are leading change on our high streets and are in fact the best hope for its survival. In 2013 across the top UK 500 town centres there has been a net growth of 424 independent shops, growing 0.4%, while multiple stores showed a net decline of 209 units (LDC).
Eric Musgrave, editorial director, Drapers, said:
“The Drapers Independents Awards recognise innovation, reward success and offer independents the chance to network with some of the most renowned and influential names in the UK’s fashion retail industry. I hope that the Drapers Independents Awards will continue to support the growth of independent fashion retailers and in turn help secure the future of the British high street. Congratulations to all our finalists and winners. ”