INDEPENDENT retailers have awarded a prestigious accolade to an Ipswich and Colchester-based firm. Alstons Cabinets of Ipswich and Alstons Upholstery of Colchester have both won the Association of Independent Stores Supplier of the Year award for an unprecedented fourth year in a row.

INDEPENDENT retailers have awarded a prestigious accolade to an Ipswich and Colchester-based firm.

Alstons Cabinets of Ipswich and Alstons Upholstery of Colchester have both won the Association of Independent Stores Supplier of the Year award for an unprecedented fourth year in a row.

The awards reflect firms' levels of service and supply performance and are voted for by members of the AIS, a group of 500 independent UK retailers.

Managing Director of Alston Cabinets John Alston said: “This is akin to winning the Premiership four years running, which is a fantastic achievement, especially as both our companies are operating in totally different sectors of the furniture industry.

“It certainly proves the old adage 'if you want to offer good service, employ nice people' and reflects our company philosophy.

“The award is a great testimony to our workforce and underlines the excellent team spirit that exists in both the office and the factory.”

It was “particularly pleasing” that their customers appreciated the service they provide, especially in today's very competitive market, he said.

“We would like to thank them for their great support of our two companies,” he added.

The directors of Alstons Furniture presented all its 400 employees with a bottle of champagne each as a token of appreciation for their contribution in winning the award.