Cheshire-based Nisa retailer-couple recognised with BEM honours

A Nisa husband-and-wife retailer duo have been recognised for their more than 41-year service to the community Warrington.

Kuldeep Dhillon and his wife Balbir Kaur, who have been Nisa retailers for over ten years, received one of the King’s official Birthday Honours in June in the form of the British Empire Medal (BEM). The couple received their medals from the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire at a special ceremony at Tatton Old Hall in Knutsford.

Kuldeep and Balbir have also been rewarded with an invitation to attend a royal party at Windsor Castle. During the pandemic, Kuldeep and Balbir took part in fundraising to buy ingredients to make nutritious meals that they then served to frontline NHS staff at Warrington and Halton hospitals.

The couple also regularly support foodbanks in the area by supplying them with goods from their store.

Through Nisa’s Making a Difference Locally charity, the Locking Stumps store has donated over £10,500 to local worthy causes, including nearby schools, football teams and youth clubs.

In his earlier life, Kuldeep spent six months working in a laboratory following his graduation as a microbiologist. However, he found that this lifestyle did not quite suit him. He found working in the lab lonely and wanted to be around people instead. This revelation triggered a career change and bought Locking Stumps Post Office in 1982.

Asked about receiving recognition for his service, Kuldeep said, “I really love running my store because of the interaction with the community.

“I have earned my living from this community for the past 41 years, so I like to give something back to my community to thank them. I love my work, serving people and having a chat and a laugh with customers.”

Victoria Lockie, Head of Retail at Nisa, said, “Many congratulations to Kuldeep and Balbir on this hugely well-deserved honour. Kuldeep and Balbir have become pillars of the Warrington community they have served so well for over 40 years, and they are both highly respected by their loyal customer base.

“I have heard lots of incredible things about Kuldeep and Balbir and how much they have done to raise funds and support vulnerable and isolated people in Warrington – including regular donations into the community through Making a Difference Locally. 

“They are truly inspirational, and we are extremely proud to have Kuldeep and Balbir as part of the Nisa family.”