Philip and Kate Wyatt of Somerset independent Ilminster Home Hardware are celebrating having been declared Home Hardware Retailer of the Year at the organisation's convention this month.
Since buying the business in 2012, Philip and Kate have worked incredibly hard and this has resulted in their turnover increasing 60% in the last three years," commented Home Hardware chairman David Adams. "A brilliant achievement in challenging retail times."

Mr Wyatt attributed the success of the store firstly to teamwork. "All the staff and my family have played their part, whether it be buying, pricing, delivering, customer service or any other part of hardware life, we all work together to make it a strong independent family business," he said.

"Secondly to Home Hardware. Excellent stock availability, competitive pricing and great business support, especially the high-quality brochures which we distribute six times a year, which keeps our footfall high and tills ringing."

Meanwhile, Kitchencaft was announced as Supplier of the Year, thanks to speed and accuracy of delivery, stock availability, field support and general ease of doing business. The award was presented to sales director Richard Plant.

He commented: "Over the past few years we have successfully made the transition from competitor to supplier of Home Hardware, and this award is testament to the hard work put in by every part of team and to the close working relationship our businesses enjoy."

Neudorff won the title Best Display Stand at the convention's trade show, which hosted 46 exhibitors, while a joint Addis/Rentokil stand by agent Philip Manns was runner-up.

The convention also saw Mike Abbott of Barrettine Products and Woodman Hill, and Robert Clifford of Barrettine Products receive special recognition awards for the help and support given to Home Hardware and its retailers.

The event raised £2,060 for charities, from members, suppliers and staff. Of that, £400 will go to Children in Need and £1,660 to Cancer Research UK.