Co-op wine buyer championed for fairtrade work

Published: 07 October, 2008

Co-op wine buyer Maria Elener has scooped the Buyer of the Year accolade at the annual Everywoman in Retail Awards.

Co-op wine buyer Maria Elener has scooped the Buyer of the Year accolade at the annual Everywoman in Retail Awards.

Elener, who has worked for The Co-op for five years, was recognised for her work in championing Fairtrade wines, and for her part in growing sales of Fairtrade wines at The Co-op.

Elener was also responsible fo delivering almost £500,000 back to two Fairtrade projects that she helped to set up in South Africa and Argentina.

The judges commented that Maria is "a role model for women who want to work in retail in order to make a difference in the world."

Kay Wheelton, head of trading for beverages for The Co-op, commented: "Maria is a great example of someone who combines commercial acumen with a passion for helping others and making a difference. She is a great role model for women in the retail industry. We are proud that she is part of our wine team and delighted that she has received this well-deserved recognition."

Elener picked up the award at an exclusive event in London last Tuesday.

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