The winner of the 2011 LiquidShop Successful Ecommerce Award has been announced. This annual competition that supports new online retail businesses has been won by Love Local. The winner was announced at a gala dinner at the Sheraton Park Lane London in conjunction with the National Ecommerce Awards for Excellence.

 

 

Love Local brings together a wide range of handmade products from designers and producers, all searchable by location. Starting with suppliers in the south west of England, the plan is to expand the service across the UK.

The main sponsor of the LiquidShop Successful Ecommerce Award is Sitemakers Ltd, a leading UK supplier of software and services to online retailers. The Award is also sponsored by PayPal,  online retail trade body IMRG, and the organisers of Ecommerce Expo, UBM.

The Award is given to a business that demonstrates their ecommerce business idea has the most potential for success.The judges are looking for strong commercial ideas backed by a robust business plan.

The LiquidShop Successful Ecommerce Award is more than just a plaque to hang on the wall; the winner receives substantial practical and financial assistance for a full 12 months to help them establish their business. This includes the LiquidShop ecommerce platform, website design, hosting and ongoing support from Sitemakers, PayPal Express for 12 months, and associate membership and accreditation from IMRG. The total value of the award is in excess of £20,000.

Speaking after the award ceremony, Managing Director of Sitemakers, Nick Pratt said, “The LiquidShop Successful Ecommerce Award is unique in that it helps new online retail businesses that are just starting out. It is not simply rewarding past success but aims to encourage new entrepreneurs and new ideas with practical help and support.” He continued, “We are delighted that Love Local has won, and we have already launched their new website at www.love-local.com