Independent shops’ windows judged as best

TWO independent retailers have won the Guernsey Retail Group’s Christmas window display trophies for 2021 after planning for months.

Jeweller Becky Rowe and Katrina Rowe, who did the displays, hold the new glass trophy for the best shop window out of Town. On the left is Korinne Le Page, of competition organiser the Guernsey Retail Group, and on the right is judge Alison McDonald. (Pictures by Peter Frankland, 30341232)

Becky Rowe Jewellery, in St Martin’s, took home the first island-wide trophy with an impressive red and gold display, and Maison Demain Home was the winner of the competition for Town entrants, with a cosy and magical winter wonderland theme.

‘I am obviously delighted and surprised,’ said Becky Machon, owner of Maison Demain.

‘I planned my display all the way back in June. A lot of work went into the display, but I enjoyed every minute of it.’

Entrants were judged on three criteria – overall impressions, theme and the display’s ability to lure people in.

Alison McDonald, one of three judges, and a lecturer of leadership, management and retail at the the Guernsey Institute, said she had been very impressed with all of the entrants.

‘When I saw the window at Becky Rowe, it was very inviting. It made me stop and look, and I liked that I could also see her products.’

Likewise, Mrs McDonald said Maison Demain’s display drew her in with the beautiful white wonderland theme and the use of products in the display.

The best Christmas window in Town was Maison Demain Home, with owner Becky Machon holding the trophy. (30342166)

Some notable runners up in St Peter Port included Wild Orchid, Healthspan, the Vape Bar, Clintons, Panache, and Wink.

Clairmont Interiors and Hairy Tail Adventures, Dog Grooming & Boutique were named as island-wide runners up.

‘As a first-time judge, I really enjoyed walking around town and meeting all the wonderful retailers we have in Guernsey,’ said Mrs McDonald.

‘I love retail, I love Christmas, what more could I want?’

Approximately 20 businesses in town and six out-of-town shops took part in the competition. Next year, Korinne Le Page, head of retail development for Guernsey Retail Group, hopes to see more out-of-town businesses take part.

However, she said it was the first year the competition has been split into two categories. To commemorate the new branch of the competition, two new glass perpetual trophies were commissioned and engraved with this year’s winner’s name.

Mrs Machon and Mrs Rowe have said they are already planning their next display.