Welcome Awards 2011

Universally accepted as the premier award ceremony for retailers in the grocery industry, the Asian Trader Awards hold a special place in my heart.

Every year without fail, as the profiles of the winners are read out and they take their place on the stage, I never cease to be amazed at the resourcefulness, enterprise and dedication these businessmen and women demonstrate to the cause of retailing and service to their community

It is also a great source of pride for me that the event has become a must attend event in the retail calendar. With a unique mix of guests, these Awards are a true reflection of our industry - where managing directors and senior buyers rub shoulders with the cream of independent and symbol retailers.

It is this sense of community and togetherness that makes the Asian Trader Awards a truly unique event.

This year heralds the 23rd annual awards and over these years I have seen our channel flourish and retailers becoming more professional. This is down to the flair and entrepreneurial skills of our readers - your customers - and together we should applaud them all wholeheartedly in these the toughest of times.

I would urge you to join us, your industry peers and the cream of UK wholesale on 9th November in crowning the next generation of entrepreneurial success.

Ramniklal Solanki CBE, Editor In Chief