T Profancik posted on April 29, 2009 16:29
On Friday, April 24, retailers from throughout Hampton Roads and western Virginia arrived in a party mood to celebrate at the second annual Retail Alliance Retailers of the Year. They were not disappointed.
More than 200 merchants arrived to recognize and honor those who would be named Retailer of the Year. The honorees were selected based on their passion, persistence, growth, community involvement, customer service and ability to bounce back from adversity.
Fifty-three retailers were finalists. Ten were recognized and one was named Retailer of the Year.
Top Retailer of the Year honors went to the Virginia Beach winner…36-year-old specialty food store and sandwich purveyor Taste Unlimited.
The other nine winners were:
· South Central Hampton Roads Retailer of the Year …the rural store with world wide web presence, Newsoms Peanuts;
· Smith Mountain Lake Retailer of the Year is the merchant determined to create a community gathering place, The General Store;
· Portsmouth Retailer of the Year Ma Maison is determined to delight every customer;
· Poquoson Retailer of the Year Floral Fashions has overcome the challenge of managing perishable items in a timely fashion;
· Northern Peninsula Retailer of the Year Country Bootlegger Dance Studio stepped out to distinguish herself among competitors;
· Norfolk Retailer of the Year Harbor Gallery continues to grow by partnering with neighbors;
· Newport News Retailer of the Year Cozzy's Comedy Club has successfully attracted the biggest names in comedy to Newport News;
· Hampton Retailer of the Year C & J Carpet Sales and Installation has built relationships and loyalty on the golden rule; and
· Chesapeake Retailer of the Year Connie's Kids competes effectively with big boxes by providing exceptional and personalized customer service.
Congratulations to all winners, pictures will be posted in the photo gallery next week.