Annual awards shine spotlight on Chester’s outstanding businesses

Chester’s business community came together in a dazzling ceremony last week, celebrating the 8th Chester BID Customer Service Awards. The event, held at The Guild, paid tribute to businesses that consistently deliver outstanding customer service in the historic city.

Now in its eighth year, the awards shine a light on Chester’s diverse range of businesses, from bustling shops and delightful restaurants to independent retailers and service providers. All of these businesses have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to ensuring their customers receive the very best experience.

The general public played a crucial role in the process, nominating their favourite businesses online across 14 categories. These included Best Independent Business, Best Small Business, and Best Restaurant. Following the public vote, a mystery shopper evaluated the top contenders to determine the final winners.

Some of the evening’s standout winners were Geoff Hughes Family Butchers, who clinched the ‘Best Chester Market Trader’ accolade, and Boots, which was named ‘Best Large Retailer’. Suzie K, a holistic lifestyle store, proudly secured the ‘Best Independent Retailer’ title.

In other categories, Brow HQ was awarded ‘Best Health and Beauty Services’ and the much-coveted ‘Best Restaurant’ title was taken by Artezzan. Lush and Dr Martens emerged as top players in the small retailer sectors, while Jigsaw bagged the ‘Best of Grosvenor Shopping Centre’ award.

Jim Dorrington, Operations Director at Artezzan, commented on the significance of the awards, saying, “Chester has carved out a reputation as a go-to destination with some of the premier businesses in Cheshire and the North West. This is a testament to the incredible individuals who own, manage, and work in these establishments. Chester’s focus on delivering outstanding service is truly unparalleled, and these awards are a celebration of just that.”

Echoing this sentiment, Carl Critchlow, Chief Executive of Chester BID, lauded the winners: “The winners of the Customer Service Awards 2023 have set a remarkable benchmark for excellence. Their dedication plays a pivotal role in enhancing the city’s allure, making Chester a delightful and unforgettable destination for all. Heartfelt congratulations to all winners and nominees for their exceptional contributions.”

The full list of winners:

•Best Coffee Shop/Café – Chalk
2^nd  Jaunty Goat / 3^rd The Rainbow Tearooms

•Best Food on the Go – Chatwins
2^nd Jaunty Goat Bakery / Pret A Manger

•Best Restaurant – Artezzan
2^nd Chez Jules / 3^rd Shrub

•Best Pub / Bar – Bar Lounge
2^nd Paysan / 3^rd The Coach House

•Best Small Retailer – Lush
2^nd Oliver Bonas / 3^rd Waterstones

•Best Small Fashion Retailer – Dr. Martens
2^nd The White Company / 3^rd FatFace

•Best Independent Retailer – Suzie K
2^nd Chester Boutique / 3^rd Styled Boutique

•Best Large Retailer – Boots
2^nd Marks & Spencer / 3^rd Wilko

•Best Health and Beauty Service – Brow HQ
2^nd The Scented Garden / 3^rd Lush

•Best Professional Service – Lloyds Bank
2^nd Halifax / 3^rd Natwest

•Best Travel and Leisure – Deva Travel
2^nd Breakout Chester / 3^rd Storyhouse

•Best Chester Market Trader – Geoff Hughes Family Butcher
2^nd Thai By Thai / 3^rd Cheshire Farm Ice Cream

•Best Hotel/B&B – The Coach House
2^nd The Pied Bull / 3^rd The Chester Grosvenor

•Best of the Grosvenor Shopping Centre – Jigsaw
2^nd Kayes Jewellers / 3^rd Jewellery By Design