Shop! SA founder and managing director Di Wilson says that Shop! exists globally to further excellence in the 'Marketing at Retail' industry.

"Our goals, as Shop! SA, are to upskill the entire shopper marketing value chain, facilitate networking and collaboration and recognise outstanding achievements. This year's awards build on learnings from our inaugural awards event held last year, and aim to foster and reward excellence, says Wilson. 

Shop! SA says the Shopper Marketing Awards allows brand manufacturers, retailers, creative agencies and production houses to showcase their work, motivate their marketing teams, build credibility in their trading community and establish themselves as leaders in the market.

Cecil W Ungerer of Smart Media, a 2023 winner, says that the Shop! SA Awards inject a fresh perspective into the industry by recognising outstanding achievements — and that a local win is a springboard to global recognition.

"It was incredibly gratifying to win awards in three different categories. Moreover, clinching gold paved the way for Smart Media to compete on the world stage and demonstrate to the world that we are a formidable presence to be acknowledged. The Shop! SA Awards serve as a strong reminder that innovation yields rewards," adds Ungerer. 

The driving force behind the awards comprises industry stalwarts:

  • Janet Kirkbride
  • Chris Hewitt
  • Grant Hillary
  • Rashree Maharaj, and
  • Wilson.

The 2023 judging panel included:

  • Carl Willoughby
  • Mamapudi Nkgadima
  • Carla Gontier
  • John Clark
  • Andy Sutcliffe
  • Craig Lodge, and and Phil Day.

The sponsors were Barrows, H&A, Online and Point. 

Wilson, says, "A key judging criteria was the demonstration of insight-led shopper executions that delivered commercial results for brands and retailers. Stringent judging standards, combined with our judges' experience, gave us a massive credibility boost as we set out to put shopper marketing on the map. This year, we’re building on our credibility to offer targeted categories and deliver a bigger event."

Wilson notes that the judging panel for the 2024 awards is yet to be finalised, and there is still time for sponsors to get on board.

Entries are online here. 

Entries will close at the end of July. Judging will be done in August, finalists announced in September and the awards evening held in November.

"If you are actively involved in shopper marketing, back yourself by submitting entries that showcase your leading work," concludes Wilson.

For more information, visit www.shopassociation.africa. You can also follow Shop! SA on Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor