Everything you need to know about this year’s Schoolwear Association Awards, which celebrate the hard work and dedication shown by those in the schoolwear industry.
What are the Schoolwear Association Awards?
Now in the third year, the Schoolwear Association Awards (SA Awards) recognise the work and commitment that those within the schoolwear sector carry out year in, year out. The awards highlight the achievements of businesses and the people that make them a success. They celebrate dedication, hard work and commitment to the industry.
This year, the Village Hotel in Solihull will host ‘The Greatest Schoolwear Show’, which will include presentations of the SA awards.
SA Awards 2019
Commenting on this year’s awards is Schoolwear Association chair, David Burgess. “Once again, we will be holding another night of celebrations and awards for those in the industry. We are now in the third year, following two great ceremonies already. I think this year will be our biggest and best yet.
“But, with all of the fun and entertainment aside, it is really important that we continue to recognise the hard work and dedication from the members of the Schoolwear Association. So many people in this association strive to push the industry forwards on a daily basis. Even if that sometimes seems a struggle, we continue to maintain the high standard of school uniform and provide the best for children and their schools.
“We have to continue educating and informing people about the benefits of good, durable and high-quality school uniform, and the greater momentum we gather with these awards, recognising both hard work and innovative products – we will be able to provide not only an industry standard, but the leading standard of clothing in schoolwear across the UK.”
SA AWARD CATEGORIES 2019
The Schoolwear Association invites all members to nominate their business, an employee or another member of the Association for any of the six awards. Applications must also include reasons why the nominee should win the industry standard accolade later this year.
BEST SCHOOLWEAR SPECIALIST 2019
– (Less than 10 full time staff) – Sponsored by Banner
– (More than 10 full time staff) – Trutex
These awards will be looking to recognise a schoolwear specialist with strong financials and great relationships with schools. Also, quality customer service and staff tenure, as well as examples that show the business goes the extra mile. Click here to apply.
BEST SCHOOLWEAR SUPPLIER 2019 – Sponsored by Cardinal Maritime Group
The winner of this award will be a medium to large schoolwear supplier. They should be able to show examples of strong business operations and financials. Also, great customer service and staff tenure. If the supplier can show examples of going the extra mile as a business, then that will also be noted. Click here to apply.
BEST DIGITAL SCHOOLWEAR 2019 – Sponsored by William Turner
Judges will be looking for pioneering digital leaders in the schoolwear industry. Those that produce engaging content, have an innovative use of digital media, websites and Epos will all be noted, irrespective of business size. The judges are looking for innovation and originality; a business that is always adapting and improving with the digital landscape. Click here to apply.
BEST COMMUNITY PARTNER 2019 – Sponsored by Rowlinson Knitwear
This award will recognise members that are selfless and work hard for the benefit of others. Judges will be looking for qualities that show a real commitment to the community and those that are a part of it; whether it be in their own local area or on a more national or international basis, with initiatives that show support to disadvantaged children and their families. The judges will also note commitment shown to the SA’s “Every Child Is Worth It” values. Click here to apply.
OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO SCHOOLWEAR 2019 – Sponsor TBC
This individual will really encompass the trade; they will be passionate and believe in the industry and what it works towards. This can be anyone within the Association that has demonstrated great commitment to schoolwear. The winner will have shown dedication in their role, helping to push the industry forwards. Click here to apply.
SUSTAINABILITY IN SCHOOLWEAR AWARD 2019 – Sponsored by Stevensons
New for 2019, this award recognises those specialist schoolwear businesses – whether manufacturer, supplier, retailer, agent or decorator – that have shown in their actions, as well as words, a real tangible commitment to reducing their impact on the environment. This could take the form of waste reduction or using eco-friendly fabrics. Also, switching energy supply away from fossil fuels or reducing transportation costs. Click here to apply.
Judging process
This year’s judging panel comprises Laura Turner, editor of CWB magazine; Ken Scates, president of The Childrenswear Association (NCWA); and Joyce Daly, former organiser of The Schoolwear Show.
Benefits of entering the SA Awards 2019
All award winners and runners-up will be announced at the Schoolwear Association’s ‘Greatest Schoolwear Show’ event on Sunday 13 October 2019 at the Village Hotel, Solihull, following the first day of The Schoolwear Show. The evening fundraiser will include a three-course dinner and live entertainment, including acts to reflect the event’s circus theme.
As well as the award, all winners and runners-up will get the opportunity for free promotion by the SA on social media and in the press. Those on the shortlist will be revealed via CWB online and will also feature in CWB’s September/October print issue.
How to apply
Award entry is free and for SA members only. However, you can nominate others in the industry as well as your own business. For ease, the application process is now all online.
For further information contact info@schoolwearassociation.co.uk.
Closing date for all entries is 31 August 2019.
