Humes Outfitters Headed to the Drapers Independent Awards 2021 With Four Nominations
We don't often like to leave the comforts of the countryside, only on very special occasions will we be called to the city, and last week was certainly that! We packed our cases, dresses and suits for a whirlwind trip to London for the Drapers Independent Awards. We were nominated for 4 awards, The Multichannel Independent of the Year, The Innovator Award, The Rising Star Award and Best Store Design. To be shortlisted in 4 categories really was an achievement in itself, and so we headed to the awards with an existing sense of pride of what we had achieved, but inwardly thinking...to come home with an award would be the icing on the cake! We were up at the crack of dawn, to get the train to London, one train ride and an uber later (yes we got an uber…this doesn’t exist in the countryside so it was quite a novelty!) we had arrived at the Hilton Bankside for a quick change as the drinks reception began at 12 noon. After a few glasses of fizz (which went down a little too well) we took our seats for a delicious meal and the awards to begin. To be in a room full of the best independent retailers from across the country was inspiring. Hearing about how people had innovated and thrived through one of the most difficult times for retail (in particular physical retail) gave us a huge sense of pride to be part of it. We lost out on the Best Store Design to the fabulous Restoration Yard in Dalkeith, worthy winners as it is a fantastic destination but for our newly renovated ladies shop to be shortlisted and recognised by the industry was huge for us.
Rachel Thomson Wins the Drapers Rising Star Award
Our first award of the day was The Drapers Rising Star Award which went to our Managing Director Rachel Thomson. “Battling a pandemic months after taking over a new retail business would deter many, but this rising retail star took the challenge in their stride, setting out a clear mission to transform the business. Thomson has overseen several new projects including improving photography, launching a new headquarters and fulfilment centre for the ecommerce team. She has spearheaded new investment in marketing solutions and launched a mail order catalogue. The business says she has been a “driving force of change, delivering growth in the most exceptional of circumstances.” Judges described her as “outstanding, entrepreneurial and committed.” – Drapers Judging Panel 2021
Humes Outfitters Wins Multichannel Independent of the Year at the 2021 Drapers Awards
Then onto the biggie...our whole table lit up as they announced Humes Outfitters as the Multichannel Independent of the Year. "Throughout the pandemic, this business embarked on several ambitious launches to overhaul its digital and bricks-and-mortar experience. It has improved its navigation systems, redesigned its website landing pages and improved product photography by shooting items in a studio and increasing the number of images per product. Humes Outfitters also introduced a guest checkout and produced its first mail order catalogue in October last year, it also renovated its store in Kelso separating men’s and women’s wear for a more efficient shopping experience. Judges noted the quality of this independent's website in particular, describing it as beautiful, with great design and imagery." - Drapers Judging Panel 2021. We had a ball celebrating in London, but the next day were looking forward to coming home to the rest of the team who had been manning the fort whilst we were away. The whole Humes team came together for a night of celebrations that weekend...lots of fizz, laughs and excitement from winning our two awards.
It is a Team Effort From Start to Finish
It is difficult to articulate how winning the two awards felt, particularly after what has been a difficult time. Our success at the awards is down to the hard work, passion, and commitment of every single person in the Humes team.
Our Loyal Customers and Brilliant Brands Made This All Possible
If it were not for the support of our loyal customers, who allow us to do what we love, the brands that we believe in so much and the consultants and agencies that believe in us, none of this would be possible. The support you give us is never taken for granted. Without you, we wouldn't be here today.
