In a recent development, Graham Watson BEM, a prominent Dumfriesshire independent retailer, has been appointed as the new president of The Scottish Grocers Federation’s national executive board. Watson, a familiar figure in the Scottish convenience retail sector, has been recognised for his exceptional contributions to his community in Moniaive, where he has successfully managed Watson’s Licenced Grocers for nearly 20 years. His dedication to community service and fundraising efforts, such as a recent initiative involving 5,000 push-ups to support MND research, led to him being awarded the British Empire Medal for his outstanding services during the Covid-19 crisis.
Expressing his excitement and gratitude for the new role, Watson stated, “For many convenience retailers, running a local grocery store is more than a business – it is a way to provide essential services and be an integral part of the community. I am honoured to take on the presidency of SGF and look forward to working closely with the board and our national chief executive, Pete Cheema.”
Dr Pete Cheema OBE, the SGF chief executive, commended Watson’s appointment, highlighting his unwavering commitment to the convenience retail sector and his community. Cheema acknowledged the challenges faced by retailers in recent years and expressed confidence that Watson’s leadership would be instrumental in navigating future obstacles.
The Scottish Grocers Federation, a leading trade association representing over 5,200 stores in Scotland, plays a crucial role in supporting the convenience sector. These stores collectively contribute to the employment of over 55,000 individuals in Scotland and the UK, with sales amounting to more than £49.4 billion. The official swearing-in ceremony took place at the SGF annual conference held at the Doubletree Hilton in Glasgow.
In summary, Graham Watson BEM’s appointment as the president of The Scottish Grocers Federation underscores his dedication to community service and the retail sector. His new role signifies a significant milestone in his career, and his leadership is expected to bring valuable insights and initiatives to benefit the convenience retail industry in Scotland.