Pride of The Co-operative winners get star treatment
winners get whisked away for a luxury makeover
After being selected from hundreds of nominees, our Pride of The Co-operative winners were whisked away for a luxury makeover this week, in preparation for the Pride of Britain Awards in October. They were joined by four Pride of Somerfield winners.
The fantastic four arrived at Group head office on Wednesday 9 September, and after a meet and greet and a spot of lunch, they were transported across to the neighbouring Trafford Centre where they were able to enjoy a taste of the celebrity lifestyle.
To congratulate them on their achievements, former Blue star Simon Webbe, pictured left, and girlfriend Laila Manoochehri, dropped into the Coast store at Manchester’s Trafford Centre where our winners were given the five-star treatment.
Simon said: “It’s great to hear the winners’ stories and see how committed they are to their jobs as well as going the extra mile. They all really deserve some acknowledgement for their contributions and this is a really nice way of saying thanks – and that the business is proud of them. It’s great.”
The colleagues, from across The Group’s family of businesses, include Co-operative Pharmacy’s John Proctor, Funeralcare’s Mark Robson, The Co-operative Food’s Alex Sophianou and The Co-operative Financial Services winner, Sarah Hodgkinson. The Co-operative Travel’s winner, Libby Gray was on holiday on the date of the makeover, but will be able to choose an outfit from her local Coast store on her return.
Speaking after the makeover, John Proctor from the Blackpool branch of The Co-operative Pharmacy, said: “It’s been a great day, I’m overwhelmed with it all really, it’s fantastic.”
Alex Sophianou, manager at the New Ash Green food store, added: “We’ve had a fantastic time, Mel is thrilled to bits with her outfit and she looks a million dollars. We can’t wait for the awards now!”
Sarah Hodgkinson, a customer service advisor for smile, said: “What a lovely treat, I’m so proud to have been chosen and my mum looks amazing – I just need to get my outfit sorted now! Meeting Simon Webbe was a nice surprise too!”
Mark Robson, from the Taunton branch of The Co-operative Funeralcare added: “I’ve had a super day, just lovely. I have worked for The Co-operative since I left school so it’s really nice to be acknowledged for my commitment – I love my job and this really is the icing on the cake.”
And not ones to steal the limelight, Alex and Sarah both decided to nominate their Pride of Britain guests – wife Mel, and mum Jane – to take part in the makeover on the day.
The group were treated to champagne and chocolates on arrival at the store, after which Mark and John were taken to menswear retailer Suits You, where they were kitted out in suits, shirts and ties for the red carpet event next month.
Meanwhile, the ladies were individually styled by Coast’s top assistants, who were on hand with tips on shapes, styles and cuts to flatter them – as well as advice on what accessories, bags and shoes to choose, really adding the wow factor to their finished outfits.
Store manager Paula said: “We’re really proud to be involved with such a great team of people who have clearly worked so hard, and who deserve a real treat for their efforts. We hope they’ve enjoyed the makeover and have felt pampered, glamorous and that they’re now ready for the Pride of Britain awards.”