The Grocer of the Year 2021 has been announced, and it's not Aldi, Lidl or Tesco.
Supermarket giant Morrisons was awarded the top prize at the Grocer Gold Awards 2021, marking the first time the retailer has been awarded the prestigious title since 2012.
The retailer was praised for its response to the pandemic, which included immediate supplier payments, its phone-based ‘doorstep delivery’ food boxes for shielding shoppers and increased online capacity.
READ MORE: Cheapest supermarket in the UK named and it's not Lidl, Asda, Morrisons or Tesco
The judging panel also commented that Morrisons had not simply focused on the pandemic and that its other achievements included the opening of six new stores, while trials of a new format Market Kitchen concept have been extended amid positive sales.
They also praised Morrisons wholesale arm and integrated supply chain which have continued to grow.
Adam Leyland, The Grocer’s editor-in-chief and chair of the judging panel, said: “It’s a brilliantly run business that has consistently done right for all its stakeholders, and reaped the rewards.”
Clare Grainger, Morrisons people director, said: "In a year like no other, we acted fast to play our full part in feeding the nation.
“Day after day, our 105,829 team of foodmakers and shopkeepers rose to the challenge - serving millions of customers who rely on us every week.
“They become real life superheroes and I am incredibly grateful to each and every one of them for their continued dedication through a very difficult year."
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