Chris and Louise Cobb's Keystore shines in national retail competition for community support.
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Celebrating Community Champions
In a remarkable display of community spirit, Chris and Louise Cobb, owners of the Keystore on Kirk Brae in Cults, have been honored as champions in a national retail competition. Their dedication to serving the local community has not gone unnoticed, as customers rallied to nominate them for this prestigious award.
The couple was recognized as the ‘regional local retail champion’ at a dazzling ceremony held in London, organized by National Lottery operators Allwyn.
A Commitment to Giving Back
Mr. Cobb, who took over the Keystore 17 years ago, expressed his gratitude for the recognition.
“We were nominated by a few customers, which is a great feeling,” he shared with The Press and Journal. Out of nearly 1,000 nominated stores, the Cobbs’ commitment to their community set them apart, leading to their selection as one of the 16 regional winners. Along with the honor, they received a cash prize of £5,000, a portion of which has already been donated to local charities.
In true Cobb fashion, the couple donated £1,000 to the Rotary Club, which has been instrumental in creating Christmas boxes for those in need in Ukraine, Romania, and the UK. Mr. Cobb emphasized their ongoing efforts to support local food banks and community initiatives, stating, “We try our best to help out food banks and PTAs, as well as being lucky enough to secure some funding for local football clubs.” Their community fund, which amounts to about £250, is earmarked for projects like installing a swing for disabled individuals at Duthie Park.
Building Relationships with Customers
What truly distinguishes the Keystore from larger competitors is the personal touch that Mr. Cobb and his staff provide. They prioritize customer interaction, opting for a traditional service model without self-service tills. Mr. Cobb noted, “We want to talk to everyone.” This approach fosters a sense of community, as they actively check on regular customers who may be missing from the store. For instance, if a loyal customer hasn’t picked up their newspaper, the Cobbs will deliver it to ensure their well-being.
Ellen Smith, a regular shopper and volunteer at the Mannofield Church food bank, was one of the individuals who nominated the Cobbs for the award. She praised their unwavering commitment to the community, particularly during the pandemic when they ensured that vulnerable individuals received their essentials. “He does a lot for the community,” she remarked, highlighting Mr. Cobb’s selflessness and dedication to helping others without expecting anything in return.
A Memorable Award Ceremony
The recognition culminated in a special trip for the Cobbs, which included an unforgettable experience at Wembley Arena for the National Lottery’s Big Bash. Mr. Cobb described the event as a highlight, stating, “We were invited to the Hilton in London to receive the award. The trophy we received was made out of recycled scratch cards, which I thought was a nice touch.” The evening featured performances from renowned artists, making it a fitting celebration of their achievements.
In a world where retail often prioritizes profit over people, the Cobbs’ story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that local businesses can have on their communities. Their commitment to service, compassion, and community engagement not only earned them an award but also solidified their place as beloved figures in Cults.
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