St Helens Store Earns Prestigious Recognition as One of the UK's Best

In an uplifting story of dedication and community spirit, Mayo and Bisi Osundeko, the husband-and-wife team behind Go Local Junction Lane in St Helens, have emerged as owners of one of the UK's top independent convenience stores. This accolade reflects not only their hard work but also the commitment of their entire team to serve the local community.

A Journey of Transformation

Having taken over the store in December 2021, the couple embarked on a journey to revitalize a location that had been struggling. With a vision to improve services and engage more effectively with their customers, they undertook significant renovations, introducing new chiller units and expanding shelving space to enhance the shopping experience.

Recognition Among the Best

Go Local Junction Lane has been recognized in the UK and Ireland’s 2026 ‘Top 100 independent convenience stores’. This recognition is awarded to retailers who excel in two or more of the Better Retailing Awards categories, which evaluate essential operational excellence. The Osundekos’ commitment to quality service has positioned them at the forefront of the independent retail sector.

A Community-Centric Approach

With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, Bisi and Mayo work closely with their team to ensure that their store remains a trustworthy and valuable resource for the local population. Speaking about their team, Mayo emphasized how their collaborative efforts have had a profound impact, stating, “This award shows that their positive experiences are making a real difference.”

Looking Ahead

Continuing to innovate, the team is expanding their services, including a home delivery system through Snappy Shopper, thereby enhancing accessibility for their customers. The couple's entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop there; they also manage an online baby care brand, illustrating their resilience and commitment to addressing diverse community needs.

The upcoming Better Retailing Festival & Awards will provide further recognition for Go Local Junction Lane and similar establishments, celebrating those who contribute positively to their communities. The Osundekos’ journey is a remarkable testament to how dedication to excellence and community service can transform a humble convenience store into an award-winning establishment.