Sunita Aggarwal is a successful independent female retailer, passionate advocate for women, and a proud mother. As an Ambassador for WIC and the Founder of WIRN and #DoAsRajWouldDo, Sunita is dedicated to creating opportunities, connections, and a strong sense of community for women across the retail industry. Known for her energy, authenticity and willingness to support others, Sunita believes in lifting women up, sharing experiences and making sure no woman feels she has to navigate the industry alone. Whether through her retail business, networking, charity work or mentoring others, she is always looking for ways to make a positive difference. At the heart of everything she does is a simple belief: when women support women, amazing things can happen!

Eimear Andersen is Owner of Tansor PR, an independent strategic communications consultancy specialising in the UK convenience, grocery retail, wholesale, forecourt and retail technology sectors. With more than 20 years' experience, she works with senior leadership teams to develop strategic communications, thought leadership and industry-facing content that strengthens reputation and supports commercial growth. Much of her work is delivered confidentially, advising clients on commercially sensitive projects and communications. Alongside her consultancy work, Eimear is a podcast host, interviewer and conference content producer, regularly interviewing senior industry leaders and helping shape conversations across the retail sector.

Vicki has spent over 15 years working in comms for food and drink brands, now heading up Cirkle's retail trade and hospitality division, overseeing clients such as Carlsberg Britvic, PepsiCo and Rollover. Cirkle is a full-service PR agency which works to deliver comms campaigns with commercial impact for its clients, bringing its proposition 'Seen it, Shared it, Sold it Out' to life across channels. As a longtime supporter of the Retail Industry Awards, Vicki is proud to have been selected as a judge for this inaugural event, one which will truly shine a spotlight on the tremendous female talent this channel has to offer. Celebrating entrepreneurs across the independent convenience channel is close to Vicki's heart - she was instrumental in the creation, set up and leads the agency's Retailer Inner Cirkle initiative. This group of store owners from across the country was built to encourage stronger relationships between stores and suppliers, adding value and shining a spotlight on the hard work, dedication and drive within the convenience channel.

Laura Bates is Head of Retailer Engagement and Marketing at ACS, focused on engaging the retailer community, demonstrating member value and strengthening connections between retailers and suppliers. She brings extensive experience across retail, FMCG and consumer communications, having worked with brands including Coca-Cola, Yoplait, Nestlé, Ferrero and Caffè Nero.

Linda leads commercial partnerships at IGD, working with senior retail and FMCG leaders to navigate change, unlock growth and turn insight into action. With a strong background in commercial leadership and relationship building, she brings a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s retail sector. Linda is passionate about recognising great leadership, innovation and the people who make a real difference. As a Women in Independent Retail judge, she is delighted to celebrate the achievements of women shaping the future of independent retail.

Neil Godhania is the owner of JSN Ltd, operating 3 convenience stores across Cambridgeshire and Norfolk, including the recently launched Heacham Stores, one of the UK’s flagship Nisa 2.0 stores. Having started with a single neighbourhood convenience store, Neil has grown the business into a multi-site operation employing over 50 colleagues and serving communities across both urban and rural locations. He’s passionate about community retailing, local sourcing, and creating stores that sit at the heart of their communities. Neil is an ACS Ambassador and an active voice within the convenience sector, regularly contributing to industry discussions on retail growth, community engagement, and the future of independent convenience retailing. His business has been recognised through numerous industry award nominations and has donated thousands of pounds to local causes and community groups. As a judge for the Women in Independent Retail Awards, Neil is proud to support and celebrate the outstanding achievements of women who continue to drive innovation, leadership, and success across the convenience and wider retail sector.

Tom has been in FMCG trade communications for nearly 25 years, helping suppliers to gain listings and drive sales across a broad range of categories. After spending nearly 18 years in a London-based PR agency, he now works for himself with his own clients.

With more than 35 years of executive and board-level experience across the UK and international grocery and food retail sectors, Louise Hoste is on of the industry's respected leaders and a passionate advocate for independent retail. Having held senior roles including Managing Director, Commercial and Customer Offer Director within organisations such as SPAR UK, Co-op Group, Card Factory and ASDA, she has built a reputation for driving growth, fostering collaboration and leading business transformation. As former Chair of Association of Convenience Stores and MD of SPAR UK, she has championed strong governance, sustainable growth and the success of independent retailers and the communities they serve. A trusted mentor and advisor, Louise remains committed to supporting the next generation of retail leaders and helping independent retail continue to thrive.

Sean is an experienced communications specialist with over five years in the FMCG sector. He has led and supported strategic communications across grocery, convenience, foodservice and on-trade channels for some of the world’s most recognisable consumer brands. His client portfolio has included industry leaders such as Unilever, HEINEKEN UK, Britvic, PepsiCo, Premier Foods and Soreen, among others.

Sarah C Johnson is a specialist in relationship management and events, with a career dedicated to connecting people, building communities, and creating impactful experiences. With nearly 20 years of experience in events management and stakeholder engagement, she has delivered more than 50 live and virtual events annually, ranging from small executive meetings to major industry conferences and international study tours. While at ACS, Sarah created the Women’s Independent Retailer Network, which gives female retailers a support network.

Today, Sarah works as a consultant supporting a range of organisations, while also leading youth initiatives and expanding her trampoline club into a full-time operation. Known for her collaborative approach and exceptional relationship-building skills, Sarah helps organisations inspire participation, strengthen communities, and achieve meaningful outcomes.

First generation retailer for 19 years who is also an Independent Board Member for the Association of Convenience Stores, a Women In Convenience ambassador and a Co-Founder of a Not-for-Profit Organisation focusing on Independent Retailers Mental Health and providing support to those who need called Retail Family.

Aishwari joined the ACS team in September 2025, bringing experience in policy and corporate affairs from her previous role at another trade association. She holds both undergraduate and master’s degrees from Oxford Brookes University, where she studied International Management and International Relations. At ACS, Aishwari leads on policy and public affairs work related to Environment and Fuel, while also contributing to the communications team.

Frankie has over 20 years of experience in PR and Comms, specialising in Food & Drink within grocery, convenience, and hospitality. She has a proven track record of growing brand awareness and consideration, and an industry network that’s second to none. Mercieca is an award-winning integrated agency with an enviable client roster of some of the world’s leading Food & Drink brands including Vinarchy, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, Weetabix, Perfetti Van Melle and Kellanova.

A journalist and comms specialist, Lisa has written about, and for,the fmcg retail industry for more than 25 years. She moved from local weekly and evening newspapers in the 90s to The Grocer and later SuperMarketingmagazine. She was launch editor ofThe Grocer’s monthly sister titleMultiple Buyer & Retailer, helped launch Better Wholesaling and more recently was editor of Wholesale News. In between she’s beensupermarket editor at Family Circleconsumer magazine,editor of Fresh News, Waitrose’ in-house fresh fruit & veg newsletter, a contributor to Convenience Store, Retail Newsagent,plusAsda and Sainsbury’s magazines to name but a few. Agency side she’s worked across big-name brands including the PepsiCo snacks portfolio, Premier Foods, Bel UK and Natural Balance Foods. 

Susan is the Trade Communications Manager at Mondelēz International, with expert in-depth knowledge of the retail landscape after working in the sector for over 20 years. Mondelēz International’s brands include Cadbury, Green & Blacks, OREO, LU, belVita, Toblerone, Maynards Bassetts, Sour Patch Kids, Dairylea, Philadelphia, Trebor and Halls. As part of her role in helping retailers drive sales through detailed category advice, Susan leads on all trade press communications including product launches, advertising, seasonal events and industry awards, and manages Mondelēz International’s trade-facing website, Snack Display.

My name is Anita Nye and until recently have been in retail for 40 years. Starting by working after school working my way through until I was made a partner. I have seen so many changes regarding woman in retail, the good and the bad. It’s great to have these awards to recognise the amazing women in this industry which there are many.

I am the founder of Wholesale Solutions Consulting Co.

I specialise in helping service providers provide solutions within the wholesale and retail market.

With over 20 years of senior experience across FMCG wholesale and retail, I bring a genuine 360° commercial perspective.

Amy Searle is a senior communications leader with over 16 years' experience across agency, in-house and trade body roles, giving her a unique perspective across both supplier and operator environments.

Amy is a passionate advocate for women in business and a champion of the retail and hospitality sectors. She is a proud member of G100 Media Arts & Communication – focused on celebrating and empowering women in the industry.

With a background spanning PR, marketing and sales, Amy is passionate about driving commercial results for brands, bringing a strategic lens and deep appreciation for the nuances of retail and out-of-home markets.

Across her career, Amy has delivered multiple award-winning campaigns recognised across the UK and EMEA, working with leading FMCG and drinks brands including PepsiCo, Organix, Diageo, Birds Eye, Ferrero, Haleon, Premier Foods and Suntory Beverage & Food.

Bobby Singh is an award-winning retailer, entrepreneur, property investor, and respected community leader based in Pontefract, West Yorkshire.

His business journey began in 1984 when his family acquired their first local store. Through vision, determination, and a commitment to excellence, Bobby transformed that single retail venture into a successful and diversified business portfolio spanning retail, property, and investment enterprises. Today, he is the driving force behind BB Superstores, one of the region’s most recognised independent retail businesses.

Over the past four decades, Bobby has built a reputation for commercial success, innovation, and leadership. His ability to identify opportunities, adapt to changing markets, and create sustainable growth has earned him industry recognition and established him as a trusted figure within the independent retail sector.

Beyond business, Bobby is passionate about supporting local communities and championing entrepreneurship. As a judge for the Women in Independent Retail Awards, he brings extensive industry knowledge, practical experience, and a deep understanding of what drives excellence in modern retail.

Bobby’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to hard work, innovation, and creating lasting value for both business and community.

Celebrating 18 years in the FMCG industry Carly is an experienced and dedicated trade communications consultant.

After working both agency side and in-house for global brands including Coca-Cola, Mondelez, Mars Wrigley, Kraft Heinz, Tetley, Merchant Gourmet and Blossom Hill, Carly set up SmithComm in 2020, and for the last six years has been helping brands, such as BrewDog and Red Bull improve their retailer consideration by growing their presence in trade press.

From brand and product awareness, to retailer engagement, category education and events, Carly is an extension of the teams she works with and during her time with the brand has helped BrewDog to establish and grow its distribution across convenience to become the number 1 craft beer brand in the channel.

With 20 years FMCG experience across Buying and Supply, Mel is an advocate for women and health in the food sector. A Women in Wholesale committee member for the last 10 years, she has recently qualified as an ILM coach alongside her current role as Head of Commercial BU at Biotiful Gut Health, part of the Muller group, where she is also a member of the Muller Mentor Programme and Women’s Network.

I am an award-winning independent retailer, community champion, and industry advocate with over 16 years of service across policing and retail. As Managing Director of One Stop Carlton Convenience in Salford, I am passionate about driving innovation, supporting communities, and raising standards across convenience retail. Having been recognised through multiple national industry awards, I bring real-world experience, commercial insight, and frontline expertise to judging.

I am passionate about supporting and empowering women within our industry, championing greater opportunities, representation, and recognition across all levels of retail. I am honoured to have been selected to be part of this prestigious inaugural judging process and look forward to celebrating the individuals and businesses shaping the future of independent retail.

Rosie joined ACS in February 2021, after graduating with a Masters of Research from the University of Portsmouth. Before joining ACS, Rosie worked as a freelance researcher for several non-profit organisations. She is responsible for assisting the communications and public affairs team with research and analysis, used to support policy developments and keep ACS members informed.

Sophie Williams is a 3rd generation retailer from Edinburgh. Sophie is a proud ambassador for the Women In Convenience initiative, as well as being a member of the Women In Retail Network, a three time 30 under Thirty award winner, a 2 time Rising Star award winner and an ACS Ambassador. Sophie is passionate about supporting women in the industry and giving them the confidence to have their voice heard! Sophie is honoured to be asked to be a part of the judging process for the Women In Independent Retail Awards.