contents


The independent sector continues to thrive, even in challenging times


I EDITORIAL


Managing Editor: Simon King sking@datateam.co.uk


SALES


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’ve told this story before, but it’s been a


few years since I last told it, so here goes. Next year will mark 30 years that I have spent working in journalism. My fi rst job as a trainee journalist


was working on a trade magazine in the convenience store sector, where there are both multiples and independents – just like there is in electrical retailing. I’ve loved and continue to love working with independent retailers; you’re not answerable to executives working in their ivory tower. You have the power to adapt – you can make those instant decisions and reap the rewards. You are not constrained; you’re truly independent. The industry event in our sector took place


just a few weeks ago. The 31st iteration of the IER Awards saw the industry come together to recognise the eff orts and successes of individuals and businesses in the independent sector. For this issue, I visited Abbey Appliances in Evesham. The business, run by Lyn and Hanna


REGULARS 4 News 6 Comment: Howard Saycell, Retra 7 Comment: Paul Hide, Amdea 8 Comment: Paul Laville, T21 Group


10 Editor’s Interview – James Goldsmith, Whirlpool UK Appliances


12 Retailer Profi le – Abbey Appliances


Knight, won two awards at the IER Awards 2023, and Hanna scooped the Best Young Gun award. Lyn told me that the awards that meant the most to her was the Best Marketing & Advertising Campaign for Independent Retailers which the business won for its advert that ran on Sky TV channels and catch-up in a 10-mile radius of the Worcestershire store. This to me was a great example of what independent retailers can do to make a diff erence in their business. Fast forward and the ad ran on the satellite


TV platform throughout January, and resulted in a signifi cant increase in business for Abbey Appliances – you’ll have to read the article on p12 to fi nd out more. Lyn’s already planned the next three adverts – with support from manufacturers; and manufacturers will support you too, if you rise to the challenge. The power is in your hand.


Simon King Managing Editor sking@datateam.co.uk


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14 Small Domestic Appliances 18 Quiet Appliances


IER AWARDS 2023 A full review of this year’s awards


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July/August 2023


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