Two independent Glasgow shop owners have scooped prestigious awards from the Federation of Independent Retailers (Fed).

Girish Jeeva, who owns Girish’s Premier Barmulloch, won the Best Use of Technology category while Natalie Lightfoot, of Londis Solo Convenience in Baillieston, won two awards for Best Use of Social Media and Community Champion of the Year at the 2024 Fed Awards.

The ceremony took place on June 18 in Birmingham and was hosted by impressionist, comedian and satirist Rory Bremner.

Girish said: “It feels amazing to win this award. We’ve done so much to make sure we have everything in place in terms of innovative technology, and I hope it inspires other retailers to see what we have done and how it can benefit their stores as well.”

(Image: Federation of Independent Retailers)

Natalie, who could not attend the ceremony due to sickness, had her trophies collected by her husband, Martin.

He said: “Winning one award would have been great, but to win two is a great honour and a privilege.

“The two awards are not for selling products, they are for providing services. The social media side can attract customers who may otherwise walk past the shop and gives people a great chance to see what we can offer.”

The Fed, a not-for-profit organisation, serves more than 10,000 members across the UK and Republic of Ireland.

The judges said: “Girish has embraced all aspects possible for technology within his store - from security and compliance to the working environment for all staff and enhancing, wherever possible, the store experience for customers.

“Natalie has a real understanding of all social media platforms and how to use each effectively to grow and engage with her audience.

“She uses the store’s social media presence to introduce new products, promote offers and create demand and a real buzz in her local area.

“Natalie also demonstrates a real commitment to her local community, supporting and raising valuable funds for a wide number of local charities, holding events and promoting them on the store’s Facebook page which has over 5,000 followers.”