THE Chester BID Customer Services Awards returned for its ninth year on Thursday (October 10), celebrating the best businesses in the city.

A record-breaking 35,000 public votes were cast ahead of the awards nominating those businesses that consistently go the extra mile when it comes to customer satisfaction. 

Held in the stunning surroundings of The Guild, on Watergate Street, local businesses competed across 14 categories, including various sectors such as retail, hospitality and professional services. This year, for the first time in the event’s history, the Small National Retailer category saw joint winners with The White Company and Oliver Bonas both demonstrating exceptional levels of customer service and matching each other’s 100 percent mystery shopping scores.

In the hospitality sector, Northgate Street’s Marmalade went home with the Best Coffee Shop/Café Award whilst Shrub, an independent specialising in vegan cuisine took Best Restaurant. Bar Lounge snapped the Best Pub/Bar/Club and fellow independent Jaunty Goat Bakery took Best Food On The Go.

(Image: Chester BID)

For the third year in a row Deva Travel & Tours were awarded Best Travel & Leisure and The Chester Grosvenor won Best Hotel/Accommodation. Boots were also successive winners, taking the title of Best Large Retailer for the second year.

Carl Critchlow, CEO of Chester BID, said: “It’s incredible to see the level of engagement from the general public. Over 35,000 votes show just how much our local businesses mean to people.

“Each winner tonight exemplifies the gold standard in customer service, and I’m especially proud to see so many independents recognised for their outstanding efforts. These awards continue to showcase the excellence and dedication of Chester’s thriving business scene.”

The Chester BID Customer Service Awards ensure that every corner of Chester's vibrant commercial landscape is celebrated, this year the event was proudly sponsored by Powells Jewellery.

The full list of winners is as follows:

  • Best Coffee Shop/Café: Marmalade
  • Best Food on the Go: Jaunty Goat Bakery
  • Best Restaurant: Shrub
  • Best Pub/Bar/Club: BarLounge
  • Best Small National Retailer (Joint Winner): The White Company
  • Best Small National Retailer (Joint Winner): Oliver Bonas
  • Best Small Fashion Retailer: Dr Martens
  • Best Independent Retailer: Chester Boutique
  • Best Large Retailer: Boots
  • Best Health & Beauty Service: The Scented Garden Retreat
  • Best Professional Service: NatWest
  • Best Travel & Leisure: Deva Travel & Tours
  • Best Hotel/Accommodation: The Chester Grosvenor
  • Best Chester Market Trader: Geoff Hughes Family Butcher
  • Best of Grosvenor Shopping Centre: Chisholm Hunter