“Retail has always been a big part of my life, and I owe so much to my mum and dad, who taught me the value of hard work, looking after the community, and always giving your best”

A Leeds minimarket owner has seen off competition from across the UK and Ireland to win a top award.

Karan Patel owner of Premier KP’s Mini Market in Belle Isle was named Retail Rising Star at the exclusive 2026 Fed (Federation of Independent Retailers) Awards.

The award recognises the remarkable transformation he has overseen across his family’s five-store business in Leeds.

placeholder image — Karan Patel. | Third Party

Judges praised Karan’s investment in store development, innovation and customer experience.

They noted: “Since taking up the challenge of this five-store family business, Karan has spent the last two years developing and refurbishing the layouts to lift the overall look and feel of the stores, improving the product offering and introducing new features such as a loyalty scheme on drinks to go and a new home delivery service.

“A whole new in-store atmosphere, product tastings and increased social media presence have all helped drive change, with sales at one store alone going from £9K per week up to a massive £30,000 per week.”

Karan, who won Soft Drinks Retailer of the Year in 2025, said: “I’m truly honoured to receive this award. Retail has always been a big part of my life, and I owe so much to my mum and dad, who taught me the value of hard work, looking after the community, and always giving your best. Their support and example have helped shape everything I do.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. I’m incredibly grateful and excited for what the future holds.”