Archive - Thursday, 15 October 2009


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We’re tops for shops

EVESHAM’S independent shops are among the best in the country, according to a mystery shopper survey released today.

The town’s small retailers have been given high praise after being secretly assessed as part of a Location Model survey.

Evesham was ranked 12th out of the 79 towns visited by Skillsmart Retail – the Sector Skills Council on behalf of Advantage West Midlands.

After two visits to 38 Evesham shops, the town’s overall score was rated at 84.3 per cent – higher than places such as Cheltenham and Gloucester.

Individual shops performed very well with 30 of the 38 shops scoring above the benchmark of 80 per cent.

Evesham Market Town Partnership Manager Lew Hammond said: “When we knew we were taking part in the Location Model, I hoped Evesham would do well, but for the town to be placed 12th out of the 79, is very pleasing.

“I have always known that retailers in Evesham have a lot to offer, and these results have confirmed what a strong position we are in. I’m very grateful to everyone who has taken part.”

Top of the shops was Glitz Accezzoriez in the Riverside Shopping Centre, which scored 95.1 per cent. It was followed by Evesham Furnishers in second place, with Love Heart taking the bronze medal.

Representatives of these shops were due to be presented with their awards last night at Evesham Town Hall.

As well as mystery shopping, a street survey was conducted in which more than 100 shoppers were asked to answer a number of questions about their experiences. The majority said Evesham had a good variety of shops, both independents and national chains.

Meanwhile, Evesham and Pershore have also been given prizes in the West Midlands Market Town Awards.

Evesham Market Town Partnership was chosen as the winner of the Social and Community category for its integrated strategy for improving well-being. This included supporting forest schools, initiating exercise groups and building a petanque court.

Pershore Market Town Partnership won the Environment and Culture category for the development of the Avon Meadows Community Wetland.