Last year, SBF GB&I offered convenience store owners across the nation the opportunity to win a cash prize for an all-expenses-paid getaway from their business. This break was supported by an experienced guest retailer who would assist in managing the shop. The first winners of the Win The Weekend competition were Tracy Raybould and Michael Saunders of Greens of Bassingham in Lincolnshire. The duo took two days off from their store to enjoy a luxury spa retreat. SBF GB&I collaborated with an award-winning retailer to oversee their store while they relaxed, ensuring peace of mind during their downtime.
To extend the benefits of Win the Weekend beyond the two-day experience at Raybould and Saunders’ store, SBF GB&I has collaborated with other industry leaders to develop a comprehensive guide. This guide aims to help all retailers learn from their peers and implement processes that enable them to take time off. Retailers can easily download the guide through the following link: [Download Guide](https://www.suntorybeverageandfood-europe.com/en-GB/gbi/competitions/win-the-weekend/).
The inception of Win the Weekend was a result of in-depth research conducted by SBF GB&I, which revealed that 78% of retailers prioritize the health of their business over their own physical or mental health. Surprisingly, over half (55%) of all retailers admitted that they wouldn’t even leave “an experienced member of staff” to oversee their store in order to take time off.
For the previous Win the Weekend competition, SBF GB&I enlisted the help of Paul Cheema, owner and director of Malcolm’s Stores in Coventry, and the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) chief executive. Cheema generously contributed his time and expertise to manage Raybould and Saunders’ store while they enjoyed their well-deserved break.
“When SBF GB&I introduced this amazing idea, I knew I had to be involved because I understand that many retailers spend 12 to 16 hours a day, seven days a week in their stores,” said Cheema. “They are not able to spend time with their families, nor do they have a chance to take a break.”
As for the second Win The Weekend competition, SBF GB&I plans to expand the initiative to offer more retailers the opportunity to take time off. Two lucky retailers will win a two-day break at a local spa, while SBF GB&I will also provide assistance to cover their absence in store through their network of experienced retailers and in-house experts. Additionally, eight runners-up will receive a cash prize to help fund their relaxation time.
Andrew Pheasant, Head of Key Accounts at SBF GB&I, stated, “We launched Win the Weekend because our research revealed that many retailers struggle to take time away from their business, and we wanted to raise awareness of this issue. The response to the first Win the Weekend was overwhelming, indicating that this is a significant problem that we must continue addressing. While not everyone can win this competition, our hope is that the knowledge we provide will encourage retailers to take a step back and prioritize their own well-being.”
To enter the competition and stand a chance to win, simply email your name, store name and address, and a contact phone number to SBFTrade@hanovercomms.com with the subject line “WIN THE WEEKEND 2.” Please note that the entries for the competition close at 5:00 PM on 29 September 2023, and applicable terms and conditions can be found [here](https://www.suntorybeverageandfood-europe.com/en-GB/gbi/competitions/win-the-weekend/terms/). Take this opportunity to win the break you rightfully deserve!