The managers of a Chester store have been recognised as leaders in the jewellery industry for the third year running.

Lee and Maureen Hooson, managing directors of Mococo on Foregate Street, were named Retail Stars at the annual Hot 100 event.

The ceremony, organised by Professional Jeweller magazine, at London’s Freemason Hall unveiled the UK’s most influential people working in the jewellery industry.

Taking two of the coveted top 100 spots for those who bring innovation and creativity to the industry, Lee and Maureen were accompanied at the event with son Oliver, who also works within the family business concentrating on brand management and staff training.

Sense of pride

Maureen said: “We started Mococo nine years ago with just £250. To be recognised for the third year running at the Hot 100 brings both myself and Lee such a sense of pride that in a short time, we are continued to be recognised within this competitive and ever-changing industry.”

Lee added: “We love what we do, and we work hard to ensure our stores and online shop keep customers coming back for more. Our whole ethos is based on a principle of delivering impeccable customer service which has been a winning formula, resulting in the continued growth of Mococo. We would like to thank our customers for their support in helping us build our family business, and in turn be recognised by the industry for our achievements.”

Editor of Professional Jeweller and organiser of the Hot 100 awards Sarah Louise Jordan said: “The Hot 100 was a spectacular and fitting celebration of talent. What makes the Hot 100 so successful is that it levels out the playing field. Of the 100 people chosen there are no winners, meaning the skills, passion and talent are celebrated in a sense of unity, making the Hot 100 a celebration of the jewellery industry and not your typical awards ceremony.”

The Hot 100 award follows on from Mococo’s recent win at the national UK Jewellery Awards winning the Best Store Environment category and nominated for Best Branded Retailer.

Lee and Maureen have also been nominated for Business Person of the Year in the 2015 Merseyside Independent Business awards and Mococo as a whole have been nominated for Best Independent Retailer, with the winners announced at the MIB Awards tonight, October 1, 2015.