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We catch up with the people behind some of the winning businesses at the 2013 Drapers Independents Awards to see what impact their success has had.Anne Wright, ownerYoung Ideas
Young Ideas, which has two stores in Ashbourne and Derby
Independent Retailer of the Year and Womenswear Independent of the Year
"Above all else, winning the Drapers Awards was a great boost for team morale, a recognition of everyone's hard work and the commitment that goes into making Young Ideas such a special business.
The win also helped raise our profile with potential new suppliers and we have had lots of contact from new people keen to supply us. The awards strengthened our credibility with the supplier base.
The winning logos are proudly displayed on our windows and on our website, and after we won we notified our customers through e-shots. Our local media were also very interested in the story and BBC Radio Derby invited us into the studio for an interview.
We hope to continue to grow our business by focusing on what we do best - outstanding customer service and a great edit of designer collections. We're always striving to improve our service and this year we will open a new personal dressing room, where customers can enjoy one-to-one service in an even more luxurious environment.
We will also be opening an all-year-round Sale shop in a new space and after a successful launch of menswear in autumn 13 we will be working hard to build our menswear customer base.
There are also plans for a cafe as an extension to our flagship store in Ashbourne. We hope to make Young Ideas a lifestyle destination."Becci Cornelius, buyer and directorAnn's Cottage Surf Shops
Ann's Cottage Surf Shops, which has nine stores across Cornwall
Lifestyle Independent of the Year
"Being named Lifestyle Independent of the Year has created so many opportunities - raising our profile, reinforcing credibility, connecting to new brands, networking, attracting and inspiring staff. It adds value to our profile, reputation and market positioning,...