PayPoint has named Middleton News owner Ikram Vali as the first winner of its new Community Champion Awards Programme, recognising the Manchester convenience retailer for combining strong use of the company's services with a commitment to supporting the local community.
Announced on Tuesday (28 July), Vali received the programme's inaugural All-Rounder award, which celebrates retailers who excel across PayPoint's range of additional services while making a meaningful contribution to their local area.
A PayPoint retailer for more than 26 years, Middleton News has expanded beyond traditional bill payment and card processing to offer services including PayPoint BankLocal, ATM access and parcel collection and drop-off, helping the store become a community hub while increasing footfall and generating additional income.
As part of the award, Vali will receive 12 months of free PayPoint service fees, a £3,500 Community Project Sponsorship Fund to support a local initiative of his choice, and professional PR support including local media engagement, social media assets, in-store point-of-sale materials and a professional photoshoot.
Jo Toolan, managing director of network services at PayPoint, said: “Congratulations to Ikram on becoming the very first recipient of our Community Champion Awards programme. Retailers like Ikram are at the heart of their communities, providing trusted services that local people rely on every day.
“Middleton News is a fantastic example of how retailers can offer a full range of services to better serve their customers while growing their own business. We are delighted to recognise Ikram's commitment and look forward to supporting the community initiative he chooses through our £3,500 sponsorship fund.”
Middleton News in Manchester Photo: Middleton Shopping Centre/Facebook
Vali said the award reflected the changing role of convenience stores within their communities.
“We're really proud to receive this award,” he said. “Running a convenience store isn't just about selling groceries anymore. Customers expect us to offer things like parcels and access to cash services too.
“Those services make a real difference to local people, and they've also helped us build a stronger business. It's great to have all of that recognised and we're looking forward to using the community fund to give something back locally.”
Launched in June, the Community Champion Awards Programme aims to recognise retailers that demonstrate strong business performance while delivering positive community impact. PayPoint said future awards will recognise excellence in categories including parcels, PayPoint BankLocal and retailer improvement.