Grocer Gold Awards 2022: independent retail chain of the year

Winner: Henderson Retail

Henderson Retail has faced into one of Brexit’s trickiest problems in the shape of the Northern Ireland Protocol – and come out of it flying.

Developing state-of-the-art warehousing facilities over the past three years has given it a clear edge over competitors when it comes to availability.

Indeed, after winning new logistics and supply business from both Sainsbury’s and M&S in Northern Ireland, Sainsbury’s this year returned the favour, with 100 JS lines introduced in Henderson’s Eurospar stores – enhancing its fresh offer and boosting fresh share to 48%. It also found time to open two greenfield sites, acquire three competitor stores and launch its Nourish healthy food bar, while maintaining its Tesco price match commitment.

The 20% growth in sales to £543m included fuel, but 6.1% like-for-like food sales is “going some in this game” said judges.

Shortlisted:

• Eros Retail
• MSP & Nobel Group