Some of the biggest suppliers to the convenience market are supporting Sales Assistant of the Year 2017.

With cash prizes and a luxury stay in London up for grabs, there is no better way to acknowledge your hard-working employees than by encouraging them to enter. And thanks to a new online entry portal at the awards website www.salesassisantawards.co.uk, it’s never been easier to take part.

JTI is supporting Sales Assistant of the Year for the 19th consecutive year.

Head of communications Mark Yexley said: “JTI is delighted to be supporting the Sales Assistant of the Year Awards for the 19th consecutive year, helping to recognise hard work and diligence, and celebrating the achievements of the very best sales assistants across the country.

“We understand how integral shop staff are to the successful running of today’s convenience store and the unique role that they fulfil, and we wish all entrants the best of luck.”

P&G has also renewed its support for the event. Shelagh Clark, convenience channel strategy manager, said: “P&G is proud to be supporting the Sales Assistant of the Year Awards once again. The awards celebrate and recognise the hard work, commitment and diligence of the best sales assistances that this country has to offer.

“Every year we are blown away by all the amazing entrants who are nominated. We truly appreciate all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes and we understand how integral sales assistants are in the running of a successful business.

“We wish all the entrants the best of luck and we look forward to celebrating with them.”

These thoughts are echoed by Selena Taylor, head of communications at Coca-Cola European Partners GB, which is also continuing its long-running support for the awards.

“Coca-Cola European Partners is delighted to sponsor Convenience Store’s Sales Assistant of the Year Awards,” she said. “In these stores, a fast, friendly and efficient service is the key to success, along with the right range.

“We recognise the hard work of these outstanding sales assistants who go beyond their job description to make a real difference within their store and community.”

The awards are split into four categories: the independent sector, the multiple sector, the co-operative sector and the forecourt sector. Each of the four category winners will receive £500 cash.

From these four winners, the Sales Assistant of the Year will be selected, winning an additional £500 cash prize. A further award will be made for Community Hero of the Year, with an additional £250 cash prize, and the store manager or owner who nominated the overall winner of Sales Assistant of the Year will also receive a £250 prize.

After examining the online entries, judges will visit shortlisted candidates in their stores, and choose one winner in each category, who will be invited to a memorable awards ceremony and lunch at London’s Dorchester Hotel on Tuesday 7 November 2017, including an overnight stay the evening before.

Deadline for entries is Monday 14 August.