Women excelling in the retail sector have until June 30, 2008 to enter the Specsavers everywoman in Retail Awards. In association with training organisations Women in Retail and Make Your Mark, the awards aim to celebrate the achievements of women working at the top of the industry in order to encourage more to look at the sector as a viable and worthwhile career option.

Although 60 per cent of the three million people employed in the UK retail industry are thought to be women, and a low percentage of these women are working in key management positions. Statistically, less than five per cent of chief executive officers in retail are female, with just eight per cent of purchasing decisions being made by women. Everywoman, the UK’s leading provider of training, resources and support services for women in business, believes this makes little sense when women are far more likely to be making the consumer purchasing decisions at home on behalf of their family.

The awards consist of nine different categories, ranging from Entrepreneur of the Year Award to Inspiration of the Year award for individuals, as well as an award for the company that exceeds expectations of its female employees to enable the development and progression of women in the sector.

Maxine Benson, co-founder of everywoman said: “Women dominate certain areas of the retail industry, such as fashion, 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 or Michelle Mone. 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 awards will be announced at a ceremony at London’s Marriott, in Grosvenor Square, on September 30, 2008 and are supported by the government’s national Make Your Mark in Retail Campaign.

The retail sector is one of the UK’s most thriving, but the industry has traditionally suffered from negative perceptions, with 56 per cent of careers advisors believing the sector does not offer top quality training and career development. However, 64 per cent 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.

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