It was tough to determine the top six buyers in juices and smoothies and many contenders missed out by the slightest of margins.

The category poses a number of challenges for buyers, not least because of the large number of new entrants it attracts and the vast range of fruits and health claims.

Buyers have to accommodate ever more new products in limited chiller space and face the added challenge of having to second-guess what the next superfruit may be.

Yet suppliers clearly think buyers still have much enthusiasm for the category.

The star buyer, Waitrose's Stuart Owens, has appeared before in Six of the Best for his dedication to a variety of sectors in beverages. Suppliers spoke of his "detailed knowledge".

Owens' strong relationship with suppliers of juices and smoothies is clear.

One supplier singled him out for being "receptive to new ideas and suggestions and responsive to these" while another praised him for being accessible and fair in the way he deals with different suppliers.

"He has good judgment in what is a dynamic marketplace with a good mix of small innovative products and major brands," says another.

Somerfield's juice buyer, Guy Welford, and Morrisons' Tim Wykes also come in for praise for being reliable and easy to get hold of. One supplier says Welford "is always accessible on the end of the telephone or in person," while another notes that Wykes is quick to return phone calls.

Juice suppliers say Welford is "always open to discussing and building upon category dynamics and trends that will deliver growth" and is also good at delivering on his promises, although he is described by them as being "tough but fair".

Wykes is described as a "mean negotiator" who "moves hell on earth to ensure his word comes true".

Tesco buyer Jane Potter has a deep understanding of her category, according to one juice company, and shows "exemplary negotiation skills".

Potter also takes the time to provide high-quality feedback.

Both Asda's Jon Cummings and Morrisons' Debbie Roberts have a keen understanding of the shopper profile. Cummings shows good judgment, especially in his ability at balancing the current customer profile with moves to make its offer more upmarket.

Thomas is equally astute. "She clearly knows precisely what kind of products would suit shoppers at Morrisons," says one supplier.