AN ANDOVER store has been named one of the top 100 local shops in the UK.

Hexagon Stores and Post Office, in Floral Way, has made the top 100 shortlist from Independent Achiever’s Academy (IAA) which celebrates the excellence and diversity of independent retailing in the UK.

Although the store didn’t make it to the finalists’ shortlist, store owner Vip Panchmatia remained optimistic.

“It’s been good to have the top 100 title for the last seven or eight years,” he said.

“I’m sure that next year we will up our game.

“I think this year we were opening another store, which has occupied my time, so next year we will be more committed and I’m sure we will make the top ten.”

The store was shortlisted following a rigorous evaluation process, with a comprehensive application and mystery shop assessment also considered.

All entrants were judged across 12 core principles of retailing, including customer service, retail innovation, instore theatre, responsible retailing and service to the community.

Retail expert and Newtrade managing director Nick Shanagher said: “The way we shop has changed forever and consumers are finding great local retailers that help them save time and money while providing supermarket levels of service.

“Our list of the top 100 recognises the hard work that retailers and their staff are putting in all over the country.

“We are lucky to be able to showcase what great local retail looks like, which helps family businesses to further develop and compete to serve their local communities.”

The IAA Top 100 provides an extensive list for the final judging that identifies the UK’s top local stores in each of the 12 categories and the overall top shop.

A panel comprising the editors of Retail Newsagent and Retail Express and 12 leading industry experts will meet to select their winners.