Retailers in Larne and Greenisland were among nine outlets from County Antrim to be recognised at the Musgrave Northern Ireland 'Store of the Year’ Awards.

The annual awards celebrate excellence across Musgrave’s SuperValu, Centra and MACE brands, recognising the achievements, dedication and hard work of retail partners right across Northern Ireland.

McCann’s Mace in Greenisland won the bronze award in the Small MACE category.

Lusty’s Centra Townparks in Larne was also recognised in the Striving for Excellence in Food Safety category, reflecting its commitment to the very highest standards in food preparation and presentation.

From Mace Greenisland, Samantha Peters, store owners Gemma and William McCann, and Kelly Anne Jones. Photo: Aaron McCracken

placeholder image — From Mace Greenisland, Samantha Peters, store owners Gemma and William McCann, and Kelly Anne Jones. Photo: Aaron McCracken

Meanwhile, retail outlets in Ballymoney, Cloughmills, Kells, and Toomebridge, along with a number in Belfast were also honoured for excellence.

David Higgins, Retail Sales Director with Musgrave NI said: “Our Store of the Year Awards are an important opportunity to recognise the passion, commitment and hard work shown by our retail partners across all three of our brands.

“I would like to thank every retailer for the effort they put in day in, day out to uphold the highest standards for all of our customers.

"Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists and winners, who continue to set the benchmark for great service in communities right across Northern Ireland.”

(L-R) The Centra Townparks team Alana Forsythe, Patrice O’Kane and store manager David Tipping, are joined by Joanne Bertenshaw Musgrave NI’s Food Safety & Quality Retail Co-ordinator, and host Pete Snodden. Photo: Aaron McCracken

The awards ceremony, which was hosted by radio presenter and DJ Pete Snodden, took place on Friday, April 17 at The Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle, County Down.

Finalists are selected following several rigorous rounds of performance and standards audits, with the overall Store of the Year award representing the highest accolade.