Customer power will decide city centre top business award

Some of Perth’s longest established businesses will be vying with new faces on the high street for an accolade voted for by the public.

Members of the public have been invited to cast their vote for their favourite independent retailer and place to eat in the annual City of Perth Independent Business Competition.

Launching next Monday with voting running until July 4, 28 businesses have been nominated, from clothing boutiques, galleries, gift and toy shops, to beauty salons and hairdressers.

Crafters, makers and designers of everything from jewellery to furniture are also represented, as are food producers, purveyors and restaurants and cafes.

The competition is now in its third year and supports National Independents Retail Day on July 4, which encourages people to support independently-run businesses.

Members of the public will be able to vote for their favourite retailer or eatery by voting online at www.perthcity.co.uk or www.smallcitybigpersonality.co.uk, or by completing voting forms that will be available in all participating businesses.

Perth and Kinross Council city centre manager Leigh Brown said more than 1,000 votes were cast last year.

“Our independent retailers make our city unique and so attractive to locals and visitors alike,” she said.

“They deserve to be celebrated, and I’m sure this year’s competition will prove very popular.”

The winning retailer and eatery will receive a trophy and World Host Training for staff members.

World Host trains retailers in customer service excellence.

Leigh Brown.