J W Filshill sweeps the board at Scottish Wholesale Achievers awards

Glasgow-based independent food and drink wholesaler JW Filshill was named the best wholesale business in the country at the 14^th Scottish Wholesale Achievers.

The family-owned business, which celebrated its 140^th anniversary in 2015, also lifted the best symbol group award for KeyStore, best delivered operation (retail) and best marketing initiative for its Craft Beer Clan division. Fiona Ritchie, the company’s impulse buyer, also won the employee of the year category.

Describing Filshill as “a true Scottish independent wholesaler”, the judges said in a statement: “It does not have the support of a symbol group central office but it demonstrates excellent retailer selection criteria, retailer support and execution. Stores are supported with business development managers, merchandisers, planograms and a range of training packages. Its communication and pricing were described by some of its customers as first-class.”

“It is hugely encouraging for the SWA to see such strong support from suppliers and a genuine willingness on their part to strengthen relationships with our members.”

Kate Salmon, executive director of the Edinburgh-based Scottish Wholesale Association, said: “This is an outstanding result for Filshill, one of our sector’s leading independent, family-owned business – and a wholesaler that is bold and confident about the future, a wholesaler that is prepared to take risks, embrace new technologies and push boundaries in its quest to diversify and innovate.”

She also said that the Achievers initiative is not just about winning.

“Since the start, the feedback element of our awards has been very important to wholesalers and suppliers alike and it’s one of the reasons that – after last year’s Achievers – we conducted a root-and-branch review of the judging process and criteria,” she said.

“We wanted to make absolutely sure that the feedback we give is so comprehensive that it can be acted on by each and every entrant to enhance their business.

The Scottish Wholesale Achievers is the prestigious awards initiative created and organised by the Scottish Wholesale Association to recognise professionalism and excellence across all sectors of the industry in Scotland.