Tesco has been proclaimed the multiple fresh produce retailer of the year for the second year running.
The retailer also took the title of fresh flower retailer of the year in the multiple sector in the 2004 Retail Industry Awards this week, organised by Checkout and Independent Retail News.
Tesco beat off stiff competition in the fresh produce category from Waitrose, Sainsbury, Asda and Leathleys Quality Fare.
Fiona Briggs, editor with Checkout, said: “It wasn’t just about sales - Tesco sells more produce than any other retailers and over 14 million people buy fruit and vegetables from them every week - it was about total performance and commitment to the category.”
She said the retailer had also demonstrated significant support for home producers, helping them export business with its own business expansion into overseas markets.
A spokesman for Tesco said: “We’re delighted and proud that we’ve been awarded the fresh produce award for the second year running as well as being named flower retailer of the year.
“We always work hard to give customers what they want and we’re extremely proud that our hard work has paid off.”
Meanwhile, Waitrose is celebrating after being named multiple retailer of the year, and Spar was crowned symbol/fascia group of the year for the third year in succession.
The judges said Waitrose stood out as a supermarket that is differentiated and provides a real foodie environment for its shoppers.
