The Independent Achievers Academy
Improving standards across the sector
The Independent Achievers Academy (IAA) is a year-long learning, development and recognition programme for independent news and convenience retailers, helping to improve standards and grow sales within their shops.
The IAA culminates in a Learning & Development Festival, an event designed to inspire and equip independent retailers with fresh ideas, inspiration, and new business connections.
The event includes:
• Masterclasses from leading suppliers with a focus on how retailers can capitalise on key industry trends and tackle the latest challenges in our sector.
• Focus Groups allowing retailers to discuss areas of their business in-depth with fellow retailers and industry experts.
• Hands-on Trade Exhibition where suppliers can connect with retailers and demonstrate new products and services that retailers can introduce into their stores
• Networking opportunities so that you can build important business relationships with retailers and fellow suppliers from across the UK and Ireland.
Watch highlights from our 2023 festival and discover why so many industry- leading suppliers choose to partner with the IAA
‘All businesses should take part in the IAA, there’s always something new to learn and innovations to share’
Sue Nithyanadan, Costcutter, Epsom
RN 30 under Thirty
In 2021, we launched RN’s 30 under Thirty initiative, to shine a light on the rising stars working in independent retail, those who are making a real difference – to their communities, their customers or to their own bottom-line.
The campaign culminates in a celebratory event, which is a fantastic opportunity for the winning retailers and supporters to network and share ideas, as well as being the launch pad for the following year’s campaign.
Bespoke events and in-store projects
We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach with our events. From sustainability summits to in-depot and in-store projects, our experienced events team can find a solution that will help everyone involved achieve their business aims – retailers, wholesalers and FMCG suppliers alike.
