Girish Jeeva wins Vape Convenience Retailer award at Asian Trader Awards

Glasgow retailer Girish Jeeva has been chosen as the Vape Convenience Retailer of the Year 2022 at the 34^th Asian Trader Awards, held at the Park Plaza Westminster Hotel in London on Wednesday.

Kevin Hollinrake, minister in the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, was the chief guest at the event, which celebrated the most innovative and successful retailers from the UK’s independent grocery sector.

Girish, who runs the Premier Barmulloch store, is a trailblazing retailer who has immersed himself in the world of Vape.

After an extensive refurbishment the store showcases its Vape offering in a beautifully merchandised three-metre display. His brother is the resident expert who educates and advises customers on the products best suited to their needs. The store has seen huge revenue growth in the category and many satisfied customers who keep returning.

Girish caught the retail bug while working in his uncle’s forecourt, and his Premier Barmulloch destination store remains a family affair, as he runs it with his fiancée Tharsika and brother Kiru. His vape fixture was especially commended for its hygienic presentation and its flawless merchandising, backed up by a comprehensive social media presence.

Girish is still just 28 years old, but he says that “The young bring strength, passion and drive”.

In all, 13 retailers were honoured in different categories at the event, with the top award going to Glasgow retailer Shamly Sud, who was crowned the Asian Trader of the Year 2022.

Four new product launches from the last year, voted for by the retailers, were also feted, and Parfetts Cash & Carry at Shepcote, Sheffield won the Wholesale Depot of the Year award, recognising wholesalers and suppliers who play an incredible role in the supply chain.

Ram Solanki Lifetime Achievement Award, instituted in the memory of Ramniklal Solanki CBE, founder of Asian Media Group, went to Steve Keil, Director of Tactical Trading at Booker Wholesale.

Hollinrake, who was appointed minister last month, said he looks forward to developing a closer association with the sector.

“Small businesses are the very foundation of a dynamic, productive economy that creates employment, and brings huge benefits for the consumer. I’m determined to make it easier to start and grow business in this country by improving access to business finance, providing better advice and support and offering incentives to invest and grow.

“I am relishing working with independent retailers, promoting your needs across the government. I promise you, now we are on your side.”