More than 650 suppliers, wholesalers and service providers gathered in Liverpool for the Unitas Connect Awards, our annual celebration of the best people, products, initiatives and achievements of the last year.
The awards evening, a highlight in the buying group’s packed calendar of member and supplier events, was hosted this year by TV presenter and comedian Paddy McGuinness. The awards followed the first day of the Unitas Wholesale trade show, connect25, which saw record attendance from members and suppliers alike, with thousands of products on promotion as part of the two-day event.
As always, during the event Unitas Wholesale raised money for its chosen charity, Bluebell Wood, a Doncaster-based children’s hospice, raising more than £20,000.
Here’s our winners:
MEMBER’S EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR sponsored by Molson Coors
Jay Gore, Robinsons
The judges said:
Jay has helped the business go from strength to strength, building a highly qualified team, improving efficiency, and developing great relationships with both suppliers and customers. They have also positively impacted local businesses, defended local culture and maintained the local economy.
RISING STAR OF THE YEAR sponsored by Molson Coors
Lee Bindley, Regal
The judges said:
Lee displays dedication, skill and a proactive approach in his role. It’s impressive that our winner has driven a 50% increase in supplier investment over the last three years and improved stock turnover performance by 40%. They have also put in place a range of innovative solutions to improve efficiencies right across the business. Described by his business as professional and passionate,
ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY AWARD sponsored by CCEP
JW Filshill
The judges said:
This company were able to provide the most concrete evidence of actions taken and overarching ambition. They have implemented their sustainability strategy through numerous innovative initiatives that reduce negative environmental impact. They have not only invested in their own operations and workforce but also engaged with suppliers and customers ensuring all aspects of the supply chain are considered.
DIGITAL INNOVATION AWARD sponsored by Carlsberg Britvic
Direct Line Supplies
The judges said:
A clear use of AI makes this an exceptional nomination. We’re observing brands utilise AI to innovate their marketing, combining storytelling, personalisation, and nostalgia with cutting-edge tools. For this wholesaler to provide tailored solutions to customers through the technology is highly impressive.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION AWARD sponsored by Weetabix
WANIS INTERNATIONAL
The judges said:
Wanis’ totally inclusive energy, empowering culture and commitment to winning through collaboration is palpable when reading their entry.? Their submission highlights how age, nationality, culture and gender diversity strengthens their team.? All the employee’s journeys that they shared show how talent is recognised and nurtured solely on the basis of ability and potential.? Wanis demonstrate how embracing a rich blend of backgrounds and a broad range of ages strengthens their ability to serve their customers and community.? It is fantastic to see this powerfully inclusive culture being recognised by both their employees and customers in their satisfaction scores.
STANDARD AND SPECIALIST MEMBER OF THE YEAR sponsored by Inspire Field Marketing
REGAL WHOLESALE
The judges said:
While all the shortlisted finalists highlighted the benefits of strong partnerships with their customers, suppliers and Unitas. Through their onboarding of Reckitt, Regal demonstrated what true collaboration and partnership looks like, especially through investment in their people and digital, all culminating in a phenomenal year-on-year sales increase. ?
ON TRADE MEMBER OF THE YEAR sponsored by Britvic
Small Beer
Keen participation in Unitas’ events and programmes is reflected in good scores across the board from suppliers. A digital wines portfolio has led to double digit growth by streamlining the management of new, current and delisted ranges.
FOODSERVICE MEMBER OF THE YEAR sponsored by Tate & Lyle
FAILTE FOODS
Scoring highly for collaboration with suppliers, this multi-season business has seen exceptional growth in a challenging market, while investing in its premises and people.
RETAIL MEMBER OF THE YEAR sponsored by Nestle Confectionery
Praised by suppliers for its collaboration, innovation and development, our winner has continued to challenge itself and the status quo. The result has been significant expansion of its retail symbol estate, and the successful integration of the Birmingham branch.
FARESHARE RECOGNITION AWARD
JJ Foodservice
This award reflects the partnership with a Unitas member who has shown great support, not only in redistributing surplus food but the other wrap-around services that FareShare UK can offer, including volunteering days and the Fare Futures Employability programme, all of which are open to all Unitas members.
SUPPLIER AWARDS
Foodservice Own Brand Product of the Year 2024
Whitby Seafoods Ltd – CK Breaded Scampi
Retail Own Brand Product of the Year 2024
Aston Manor Brewery – Black Storm 500ml
Brand Campaign of the Year 2024
Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I – Blucozade Campaign
Service Provider of the Year 2024
TWC Group
On-Trade Supplier of the Year 2024
Molson Coors Brewing Company
Foodservice Supplier of the Year 2024
Unilever Food Solutions
Licensed Supplier of the Year 2024
Concha Y Toro UK
Impulse Supplier of the Year 2024
KP Snacks Ltd
Grocery Supplier of the Year 2024
Princes Foods Ltd
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