Happy International Women’s Day everybody!
To celebrate today, we got in touch with Head of Retail Engagement Sarah C Johnson, the wonderful founder of the ACS’ Women’s Independent Retailer Network, on how the network was founded and what it means to her.
Within our sector, it’s very important to show thanks and gratitude towards all of the great women within our industry, as well as make sure the recognition stretches across where it is due.
When asked about when the Women’s Independent Retailer Network was created, Sarah kindly gave us a rundown.
“Three years ago, with the help of Sunita Aggarwal, Susan Connolly and Josie Chamberlin from our Independent Board, I set up the ACS Women Independent Retailer Network,” Sarah begins.
“The convenience sector is quite male dominated, which meant that attendees at our events were quite daunting to women on their own and I wanted to make it a more welcoming environment. We also wanted to create a group where female retailers could come together to support each other and offer a safe place to ask questions and share information.”
We asked Sarah what the WIRN meant to her, as a woman within the industry wanting to make it a more accessible, welcoming environment for female retailers in the space.
“It is one of the most important things I have ever done. I am in awe of the retailers in the group for their continuous generosity of time and support.
In regards to having any advice for women in retail, Sarah gives us some very heartfelt insight on what she thinks others should know.
“Of course, I’m going to say, join ACS and the Women’s Independent Retailer Network. Don’t feel that you are on your own, even if you are in a remote location (we have a member on the Isle of Skye), you can still be a part of the network and benefit from the amazing women in the group.”
Sarah also notes, “I’d like to thank two inspirational women who have supported me in so many ways, Debbie Robinson (Central Coop) and Victoria Lockie (Nisa). I love this quote from Serena Williams, “Every woman’s success should be an inspiration to another. We’re strongest when we cheer each other on.”
Wonderfully put, Sarah! Thank you very much for giving C-Talk your time and input this International Women’s Day; we’re sure you’ve enlightened many retailers within the sector through WIRN. Keep up the amazing work that you do!
To read more about the Women’s Independent Retailer Network, Click Here.
