ENTERING the Independent Achievers Academy is an opportunity for businesses to gain an honest assessment of how they are performing, Julian and Jackie Taylor-Green, from Spar in Lindford, told retailers at the 2016 launch event.

As Independent Achie-vers Academy 2016 ambassadors, the Taylor-Greens explained how the academy had helped them to develop their business over the past seven years.

“Recognition as a top-100 store is motivating for our customers and staff, and the networking opportunities mean we can learn new ideas from suppliers and other business owners,” said Mr Taylor-Green. “But the biggest benefit is the challenge of the assessment. Working through the categories gives us a chance to be honest with ourselves and look at our business through a shopper’s eyes.”

The event was held at Warner’s Budgens, in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire.