RAMAE History

The Retailers Association of Massachusetts Awards of Excellence were created in 1998 by “retail expert” Rick Segel, a RAM board member, retail trainer, and author.  Developed as a way to acknowledge retail excellence in the Commonwealth, the RAMAES have grown during the past ten years, capturing the attention of the media and retail community alike.  Throughout their history, the RAMAES have honored both large and small, new and veteran retailers, local gems and national players from all corners of the state.

11 Years of RAMAE Winners

Involvement & Eligibility

Want to get involved?  Nominate an outstanding store!  All Massachusetts retailers and restaurants are eligible, and winners are chosen due to their creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment.  Financial strength is not a factor in the judging process.  RAM membership is not necessary to nominate or to be nominated.  We encourage entries from all segments of the retail community and all parts of the state.  Know a deserving store?  Have a favorite restaurant, book shop, food store, or boutique?  Show your appreciation and nominate these stores today!

How it all works

Nomination papers will be mailed to RAM members and local chambers of commerce in early August.  Additionally, anyone can find the nomination forms on our website, www.retailersma.org.  It is also possible to obtain nomination form by calling the RAM staff at 617-523-1900.

The judging process usually begins in September when the RAMAES judges meet to discuss the nominees.  The panel typically includes RAM staff, retailers, Board members, and the master of ceremonies of the RAMAES, Rick Segel.  After an initial overview, judges will call the nominees to set up a store visit, or they may choose to visit the store anonymously.  During these visits the judges will be looking for attentive customer service, attention to detail, the level of creativity evident in the store layout, visual interest, and other factors.  Once all the site visits are completed, the panel will meet to determine the winners.  Rick will then conduct phone interviews and/or site visits with all the winners prior to the awards program. 

Winners are invited to attend the RAMAES Luncheon as guests of RAM.  At the ceremony they are honored with a slide show and presentation by Rick Segel and receive an engraved award and framed plaque.  Additionally, The Boston Herald will run a story the day of the event and may choose to highlight some of the winners.  Press releases will be submitted to any media outlets they request. 

2009 Categories

Retailer of the Year
Awarded to those businesses that have it all and do it all. “Retailer of the Year” worthy businesses are those that continuously go above and beyond to provide their customers with an exceptional product, unparalleled service, and that demonstrate originality in all they do.

Restaurant of the Year
Awarded to restaurants that continuously provide their patrons with exceptional service, menu selection, and a pleasurable overall experience.  These restaurants successfully combine cuisine, service, and atmosphere.

Rookie of the Year
Awarded to businesses that are between one and four years-old and demonstrate outstanding achievement and creativity in the development of their new business.  This category encompasses both retail and restaurants.

Community Service
Awarded to businesses that successfully involve employees and/or customers in innovative community involvement efforts.  These businesses are fixtures of their communities not only because of the services they provide, but also because of their commitment to giving back.

Visual Display
Awarded to businesses that create unique and eye-catching displays of store merchandise.  Shopping in these stores offers a distinctive, aesthetic experience.

Creative Concepts
Awarded to businesses that meet and serve a niche market, by offering and providing a unique service, product, concept or idea to their customers.

Retail Hall of Fame
The Retail Hall of Fame award is given to businesses that deserve distinction in their field, for providing the best that the state of Massachusetts has to offer.