STAFF at Booker’s in Galashiels beat off every other cash and carry in Scotland last week to land a national award.

And their butchery supervisor, Scott Robertson, was also hailed as Employee of the Year at the high-profile Scottish Wholesale Achievers awards.

Over 500 of the wholesale industry’s movers and shakers gathered at the Sheraton Grand in Edinburgh on Thursday.

BBC Scotland TV presenter Catriona Shearer announced the nominations of all categories before unveiling the Netherdale cash and carry as the best in the country.

Booker Galashiels won after impressing the judges for “going the extra mile in delivering customers’ expectations.” Keir Stewart, from award sponsors AG Barr, said: “It treats every customer individually, no matter the size of the business, and this cash and carry also strives to apply the personal touch wherever possible. All the staff in the depot have a passion for both the company and the local area, and this highlights the difference that the right people can make to delivering a company’s expectations.” The Galashiels depot was also highly commended in the Great Place to Work category.

Now in its 12th year and organised by the Scottish Wholesale Association, the awards recognise professionalism and excellence across all sectors of the industry in Scotland.

Gala’s butchery supervisor Scott Robertson fended off stiff competition to claim the Employee of the Year title with the judges describing him as “enthusiasm personified”.

Peter Baird, field sales development manager of sponsor Mondelez International, told the audience: “Scott sees any issues that arise in a positive manner, and will do what it takes to solve them. He thrives on helping people and there are some great examples of him assisting customers with their businesses.

“Our Employee of the Year stands out not only because of the work he does in his job, but also because of the work he does in the community. Scott helps out with youth rugby clubs and is a Scottish Rugby Union referee.

“What’s more, he is an additional needs carer and is involved with the Boys Brigade and a charity for under-privileged people.” Following the glitzy Achievers Awards bash Kate Salmon, executive director of the Scottish Wholesale Association, commented: “Best Cash and Carry was once again one of the most competitive categories in Achievers and the judges had a tough job on their hands.

“However, it is testament to forward-thinking depot managers and their staff that each year we uncover some real gems – in Booker Galashiels, we have a shining example of a cash and carry that really does understand its customers and local marketplace.”