CHAIN RETAILER OF THE YEAR

COTSWOLD OUTDOOR

A COMMON SIGHT on high streets up and down the country – despite the rise of internet shopping – Cotswold Outdoor is perennially rated the best chain retailer by TGO readers, and it has scooped the gold award yet again in 2021. The firm, which has over 70 stores across the UK, was praised by voters for “the very best of customer service” and “knowledgeable and helpful staff ”. The retailer’s price match scheme, wide product choice and excellent online service were also singled out by appreciative readers. One voter described the Cotswold Outdoor shopping experience as involving “always good stock and friendly staff ”.

Go Outdoors

TGO readers appear to love Go Outdoors for two main reasons: its big stores with a huge range of stock, and its competitive prices thanks to both the price match scheme and “fabulous discounts”. One voter commented:

“Go Outdoors is still, hands-down, the best value-for-money chain retailer. I hope they can rebuild the company as it has inevitably suffered over the pandemic.” Others praised the loyalty card discounts and the “unbeatable prices”.

TISO

“TISO has been my favourite shop for years – there’s a great selection of stock, great service and good in-shop cafés. It knocks the spots off all the others on the list.” This is how one voter praised TISO, the Scottish retail chain founded in 1962 and now part-owned by JD Sports. Other voters praised staff for “helping without trying to push a sale” and commended the “excellent range of stock, great customer service and pleasant shopping experience.”