‘Oscar’ win for store

Housing Units has been named one of the top department stores in the country in the retail industry equivalent of the Oscars.

The Wickentree Lane, Hollinwood, business won the award for best department store retailer of gifts in The Greats Gift Retailer of the Year Awards at London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel.

The other finalists included last year’s winner, John Lewis of Oxford Street.

Open to independent department stores, or individual outlets of bigger chains, the award notes product range and knowledge, training, customer care, promotion and display.

“This is a jaw-dropping achievement and incredible reward for the staff and management who are passionate about making a difference,” said Stuart Fox, Housing Units’ retail operations director, who collected the award.

He added: “That we are competing against some of the greatest stores in the land is a tribute to all concerned. We know our customers well, we know what they like, and many of them are like loyal friends as well as supporters.”