Sheffield’s longest serving independent department store beat off the likes of John Lewis and Primark to be crowned ‘best large retailer of the year’ at the city’s new retail awards.
Atkinsons of Sheffield – which first opened in 1872 and was completely flattened in the blitz of 1940 – has been undergoing a much publicised renaissance in recent times as it utilises a multitude of marketing channels to engage with traditional and new audiences.
Nicholas Atkinson, who accepted the award, said: “I have to say a massive thank you to the staff, customers and the developers who have been driving the regeneration of The Moor – our home for the past 147 years.
“We are firm believers in the future of the high street and we plan to be here for many years to come.”
Atkinsons store has survived two world wars, numerous recessions and is now the city centre’s only independent department store.
Store manager David Cartwright said: “High street retail is facing massive challenges in 2019 and remaining relevant to our customers, how they want to shop or what they want to experience means you need to employ cutting edge techniques to stay ahead of the game. That means right from our shop windows, to brochures, events, and our online offering. We’re built on the traditions of the past, relevant for right now, and ready for the future.
“Winning this award is a true honour and a vindication of our efforts in recent times.”
David Cartwright took on the senior role at Atkinsons three years ago and has been helping oversee a major transformation of both the store and its marketing alongside the in-store marketing team and digital consultant Steven White.
David originally worked for Atkinsons in the early 1980s before advancing his retail management career via Sheffield’s own Ponsfords and other outlets.
