A NATIONAL hardware store chain established in Prestwick is in the running for a national award. 

Wright's Home Hardware was established as an ironmongers in 1947 in Prestwick and has 12 high street stores across Scotland, including in Troon, Dunoon, Helensburgh, Bridge of Weir and Forres.

A number of Wright’s Home Hardware stores are part of the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card programmes, including the Troon store which is part of the South Ayrshire Gift Card.

The firm is now up for the UK’s Favourite Local Business after being nominated in the national competition sponsored by Miconex.

Brian Ferguson is managing director of Wright’s Home Hardware and says they pride themselves on their strong staff team and offering value for money to their customers.

He said: “Wright’s is a heritage Scottish business and we see our stores as a valuable local service and very much part of the community.

"Consistent, good service is really important and we’re fortunate to have knowledgeable, long term staff in our 120-strong team.

"We have team members celebrating 20, 30, 40 and 50 years’ service with the company this year alone, and that is unusual in retail.

“Staff retention is a challenge for all employers at the moment but I think it comes down to treating people as people and allowing them to do their jobs.

"For our store managers, it’s their town and their store, so they manage it as if it’s their own business, and that makes a huge difference."

Shops, restaurants, salons, hotels and attractions right across Scotland – and the rest of the UK – are all eligible to be the UK’s Favourite Local Business 2024.

People can nominate their favourite local business free at lovelocalwin.co.uk, giving the name of the local business they think deserves to win and a reason.