Raid-control faced strong competition from five other shortlisted partnerships and emerged the winner for its "clear strategy working closely with small retail businesses to provide a holistic approach to their security" (judges' comment).
Chairman of Raid-control, John Birkenshaw, comments: "I am absolutely thrilled that Raid-control has won this national award from a shortlist of extremely strong contenders. This is the second award Raid-control has received in 2006 and, coupled with its recognition in the ACPO Gun Crime Prevention Manual at the end of last year, really establishes Raid-control as the best practice response to retail robbery.
"It is particularly timely given that the British Retail Consortium has just released figures revealing that small to medium sized retailers have experienced a significant rise in violent robbery. This national recognition will help us to extend the reach of Raid-control into retail premises and police forces where it is yet to be implemented."
Raid-control President, Alan Townsend, adds: "Raid-control has developed from a theoretical concept into a practical and highly effective solution to retail robbery, which is having a positive impact on retailers and communities around the country. We are very proud to win this award, which is testament to the hard work of a lot of dedicated people. I would like to thank everybody who has contributed to Raid-control because without their support we would not be where we are today."
Raid-control has an average 90% robbery reduction rate in the premises where it is installed. There are over 250 Raid-control premises nationwide, with a further 250 in the process of being certificated. Raid-control is a cost-effective solution that is affordable to small retailers.
The Best Partnership Initiative award is designed to 'salute major pioneers in the field'.