The Warehouse Group misses out on top gong

AUCKLAND: New Zealand value operator The Warehouse Group has missed out on its bid to become the world's most Responsible Retailer of The Year.

The retail giant, which operates across apparel, accessories, homeware and specialty goods, was shortlisted for the Responsible Retailer of the Year World Retail Awards 2008 but lost out to South African supermarket group Woolworths.

The internationally recognised awards were staged during the annual World Retail Congress in Spain with six companies across the globe shortlisted for the accolade. Entrants in the award must demonstrate long-term, ethical strategies across employment practices, sourcing, environmental policies, fair trade and supply chain.

UK highstreet giant Marks and Spencer took out the award in 2007.