November 2009: At the recent International Convenience Retailer of the Year Awards, Topaz, Ireland’s largest fuels and convenience retailer, picked up an accolade for International Convenience Store of the Year. The awards, run by the National Association of Convenience Stores, recognise outstanding contributions to the world of grocery retailing.
Topaz was one of the runner ups of the award, with first place going to Spar China. The network of over 300 stations was recognised for its “new format, which responds to consumer needs in food and fuel.” Some of the innovations that helped Topaz achieve this award are their services available at the flagship stores at Dublin Port and in Kill, Co. Kildare. These sites offer innovative customer service options, such as touch screen technology to make ordering faster and more accurate, a large, comfortable sit down area, shower facilities, internet kiosks and a text service which allows fuel card customers to find out the location of their nearest forecourt. At the Dublin Port station, there is also a full service restaurant with an extensive menu.
In other areas, the awards noted that Topaz have expanded to include their own brand products, including milk, water and firelighters. Their forecourts incorporate modern car washes, service areas and even a Smart Driving Centre. As regards fuel, Topaz have included an additive as standard in all transport fuels, which cleans the engine, reduces CO2 emissions and improves efficiency by up to 3%.
The company’s strong CSR ethic was acknowledged, as it is involved in the sponsorship of many local and international events. These include the Rose of Tralee Festival, the Galway Ocean Race and the Topaz Donegal International Rally. They also support several charities, such as a three year partnership with UNICEF, and a recent agreement with Temple St. Children’s Hospital. The company’s involvement with the RSA in the Driver Reviver Campaign won them a recent Chambers Ireland Corporate Social Responsibility Award for their contribution to alerting the public to the dangers of driver fatigue.
Frank Gleeson, Retail Director of Topaz said “We’re delighted to be recognised on an international scale for our store facilities and customer service offerings. We strive to provide the topmost level of customer service, and we’re honoured and very happy to accept this compliment. “
The NACS is an international trade association which represents more than 22,000 retail and 1,800 supplier company members. Member companies are dotted around almost 50 countries worldwide, with a majority based in the United States.
Further Information:
Eleanor Newman, Gordon MRM, 087 6440678