AN AWARD-WINNING Renfrew shopkeeper has bagged another top accolade.

Saleem Sadiq, owner of the Spar store in Paisley Road, was honoured at the Scottish Grocer Awards after his newly refitted shop caught the judges’ eyes.

In awarding Mr Sadiq the Dairy Award (Independent Store), they declared: “Promotions are used very effectively and displays are excellent.”

Mr Sadiq told The Gazette he is thrilled to win the award.

He added: “I am also pleased for the staff. They are very hard-working and the award is for them as well.

“It’s not a one-man band here. Everyone puts in their fair share.”

Mr Sadiq, who employs 22 staff in the 4,500sq ft convenience store, has won a string of honours over the years, including the Retail Achievement Industry Award.

“It’s very humbling,” he said. “I am running out of space in the cupboard for all the trophies.”

Mr Sadiq also paid tribute to his loyal customers.

“Without them, this would not have been possible,” he said.

Retailers from across the country were honoured at the Scottish Grocer Awards, which aim to recognise and celebrate the very best in convenience retailing.

The event is the biggest awards programme of its type in the country.

Held at Glasgow’s Hilton Hotel, the awards ceremony was hosted by comedian Craig Hill.

A total of 21 awards were presented to some of Scotland’s best independent retailers, symbol stores, forecourts, employees and entrepreneurs.

Scottish Grocer editor John McNee said: “This is the 21st year for the Scottish Grocer Awards and I have no hesitation in saying it was our best yet.

“Across the board, the standard of entries was exceptional.

“All of our finalists deserve tremendous credit for the work they do for the industry and their communities.

“Congratulations go to all of our winners, who work very hard to make convenience retail one of Scotland’s most dynamic and engaging industries.”