Leeds Co-op store manager scoops prestigious national retail award for part played in tackling retail crime

21 March 2025

Leeds store manager, David Brook, has scooped a prestigious national retail award designed to celebrate excellence and, those who have made a significant impact in the retail industry – organisers of the awards said “it is commendable that the work David has done will benefit the whole retail industry.”

(David presented with his award by TV presenter, magician and comedian, Stephen Mulhern)

David, 38, manager at Co-op’s Burley Street, store, was a finalist in the “Store Hero” category of the “Retail Week Awards 2025” - with the organisers of the awards acknowledging that the event is a “benchmark for excellence in the sector” and that it is “dedicated to recognising individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond.”

Working in retail for more than 20 years, David has been acknowledge for not only being a high performing store manager, but for the part he played as a front-line shopworker voice bringing the issue of retail crime to life and supporting Co-op’s Safer Colleagues, Safer Communities, campaign. David spoke out on national and regional media, helping to bring about change and making a difference for all retail workers UK-wide.

Co-op has been at the forefront of raising awareness of retail crime as part of its commitment to creating healthy, stronger and more resilient communities, and has invested £200m in wide ranging preventative measures over recent years.

Judges said: “The judges were keen to celebrate the excellent work done by David Brook from the Co-op, who scooped the Store Hero award. Brook was recognised for his dedication and commitment to raising awareness of retail crime – raising awareness and bringing about change. With more than 20 years of retail experience, and as a manager in Leeds city centre store affected by shoplifting, he was praised for his boldness and bravery in speaking out with his lived experiences. It was also commendable that the work Brook has done will benefit the whole retail industry - It’s amazing to step up and talk about it, which is a brave thing to do. He has put himself at so much risk and has still maintained strong results (in store).”

David, said: “I was shocked, surprised and delighted, it really is very special to receive this recognition – it means such a lot to me. I don’t think it has really sunk in yet. Retail crime and safety is something I am passionate about. I never expected to be shortlisted for an award, let alone win! And I couldn’t have achieved this recognition without a great team and the support of the Co-op which provides opportunities to play a part and make a difference in our high streets and communities.”

Nicola Taylor, Area Operations Manager, said: “Fantastic! I am so pleased for David, who is a wonderful example of a manager who is totally focussed on his role as a high performing store manager, and one who also gone above and beyond to share his lived experiences and bring to life challenges faced by shopworkers across the UK. David has lent his voice and spoke out as a city-centre store manager to Co-op’s successful Safer Colleagues, Safer Communities, campaign and he has truly helped to make a difference for all retail workers.”

Winners were announced on 20 March, when the Retail Week Awards 2025 celebrated the contributions made within the retail industry at a glittering award ceremony held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.

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Editor notes:

About Co-op:

Co-op Group is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives, with interests across food retail, funerals, insurance, and legal services. Co-op is owned by and run for its 5.5 million members. With over 2,300 food stores and more than 800 funeral homes, Co-op also supplies products to 6,000 other outlets, including those run by independent co-operatives, through its wholesale business, Nisa Retail Limited. Employing 55,000 people, Co-op has an annual turnover of over £11 billion and is a recognised leader in social goals and community-led programmes. Co-op exists to meet members’ needs and champion the causes they believe in.

Further information:

Andrew Torr, Senior Press Officer - Co-op Press Office
M: 07702505551
E: andrew.torr@coop.co.uk