Former SGF President and National Executive member recognised in the 2021 New Years’ Honours List
Scottish Grocers’ Federation is delighted to announce that two of our National Executive members have been recognised by the Queen in the recent New Year’s Honours List. Former President Abdul Majid has been awarded the MBE. This recommendation has been made by the Prime Minister and on the advice of the independent Main Honours Committee following an independent assessment process.
Based in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire, Nisa retailer Majid is a hugely respected figure within the industry and is widely seen as being a driving force behind the restructuring of SGF in 2015, which saw Pete Cheema taking the reins as CEO and re-established the Federation as a major force within the industry. The award was made for outstanding service to the local community, Scottish retail and to charities at home and abroad.
Abdul Majid said, “I am surprised but humbled to be bestowed the award of MBE in the Queens New Year’s honours. I would like to thank my family and friends as well as my retailer colleagues at the Scottish Grocers’ Federation for their love and support. A special mention for the wonderful people at the following charities, Sarwar Foundation, St Andrews Hospice and Maggie’s Lanarkshire for all their efforts locally and abroad. And finally, to the good people of Bellshill for putting up with me these past 37 years. Thank You”
Graham Watson, owner of Watson’s Licensed Grocers in Moniaive was also awarded the British Empire Medal for his services to the community in Moniaive and Glencairn during the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking on his award, Graham said, “It has been a very difficult time for everyone and it is not over yet. I am doing my job and doing what I can to help my community. I’d like to think I made a difference but it wasn’t just me, it was my staff, family, friends and the community. So this BEM is not just for me, it is for everyone. It is for the village.”
Commenting on the awards Pete Cheema OBE said, “These are thoroughly well-deserved awards. Abdul’s contribution to the community and to charity has been outstanding. On a personal level I am delighted at this news; as a colleague his help, advice and support have always been invaluable. On a professional level, Abdul’s commitment to the Federation – and to the industry – has been immense.
It is also extremely rewarding to see Graham recognised for his tremendous efforts within his local community. Always one to go above and beyond it was inevitable that he would go that extra mile during recent times for the good of his local community. It is fantastic to see our industry rewarded in such times.”
Both Majid and Watson are likely to be presented with the award at a ceremony of investiture in 2021.