An annual awards ceremony is seeking to promote female achievements in the retail industry, where they wield little power despite being the main consumers.
The Specsavers everywoman Retail Awards, for which entries are now open, was set up to recognise female achievement in an industry where fewer than one in 20 CEOs are female and just 8% of purchasing decisions are made by women.
This is despite the fact that 60% of the three million people employed in the UK retail industry are estimated to be female, and women are far more likely to be make consumer purchasing decisions on behalf of their family than men.
The awards, in association with Women in Retail and Make Your Mark, aims to celebrate the achievements of women working at the top of the retail industry to encourage more to see the sector as a viable and worthwhile career option.
Despite being one of the most prosperous sectors of the economy, the industry has traditionally suffered from negative perceptions, with 56% of career advisers believing the sector does not offer top quality training and career development, according to a poll by Skillsmart Retail. However, 64% of retailers offer training and development to staff members, and there are a number of vocational and academic qualifications that can help women get to the top, such as NVQs, which can be undertaken while working.
There are nine award categories, ranging from Entrepreneur of the Year to Inspiration of the Year for individuals, and including an award for the company which exceeds the expectations of its female employees in furthering their development and progression.
“Women dominate certain areas of the retail industry, such as fashion,” says everywoman co-founder Maxine Benson, “yet few are aware of the huge range of career options available to them, or aspire to climb up the ladder to be the next Jane Shepherdson [outgoing brand director of Topshop].
“We want to change perceptions of retail with these awards by identifying those at the top of their game, who can act as positive role models to others, show them that their goals are achievable and encourage them to aim high. The retail industry is one the UK is renowned for, and provides the perfect opportunity for a rewarding and successful career, rather than just a job."
The panel of judges includes Kim Winser, CEO of Aquascutum; Beverley Aspinall, managing director of Fortnum & Mason; and the retail operations director of Selfridges, Sue West.
Dame Mary Perkins, founder of Specsavers and patron of NatWest everywoman awards, says: “There are now so many incredible opportunities in the retail industry for women. Although there are not as many women in senior positions as there might be, I would recommend the sector as offering incredible prospects. The retail industry is extremely rewarding and the female touch is greatly needed.”
The Awards, which are supported by the government’s Make Your Mark in Retail Campaign, will be announced at a ceremony at The Marriott, Grosvenor Square on 30 September.
