In October, SPAR Denmark retailer Michael Sangill received the Danish Retail Award, the industry’s highest honour, at a major ceremony at Axelborg in Copenhagen. His SPAR store in Hvide Sande has been celebrated for its strong growth, commitment to local values, and people-focused management.

The Danish Retail Award was presented for the 15th year in a row by the Danish Chamber of Commerce, SameSystem Workforce Management, and ZBC, one of Denmark’s largest technical and vocational schools. The award celebrates Denmark’s best and most innovative store and department store managers.

To qualify, participants must have a passion for retail and show extraordinary and visible results in innovation, particularly in areas like sustainability, ESG, education, technology, etc.

Local success

SPAR retailer Michael Sangill and his business partner operate three stores in West Jutland, including the SPAR store in Hvide Sande. These stores have grown consistently year after year, achieving a combined annual turnover of hundreds of millions of DKK. The retailers invest in making their stores state-of-the-art, in green energy, and in the local community and employees. Around 70 team members work in their stores in Hvide Sande and Bjerregaard, where they have created an inclusive working environment with growth opportunities.

When asked what makes him most proud, Michael Sangill said, “First of all, I am just local. Local is what matters to me, and I am proud that, while we grow and invest in development, we also give back to local communities by using local producers and buying locally.”

Michael Sangill is also proud of his team members in the three stores. He praises them for being adaptable. “We came in as two young retailers with lots of ideas, so it has also been a journey for our employees. They have been part of our quirky ideas.”

Through the support from SPAR Denmark, Michael Sangill and his business partner have been able to work with a great deal of freedom with responsibility. “As a retailer, you can think for yourself. It’s not all so tight and top-down. There is room for creative thoughts and ideas,” he said. One example is their AI-based wine assistant, which uses QR codes to give customers personalised recommendations and precise shelf locations. This is perfect for a tourist area like Hvide Sande, where advice is needed even outside regular hours.

This year’s three award winners will enjoy an all-expenses-paid study trip to New York from 4–9 May  2026, guided by retail experts from ZBC.

Sources: Via Ritzau, ZBC

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About SPAR Denmark

SPAR Denmark was founded in 1954 when Danish retail company, Dagrofa, was granted a licence to operate the SPAR brand in the market. In 2013, NorgesGruppen purchased 49% of the Dagrofa Group. SPAR Denmark has strengthened customer experience in stores, continued the modernisation and digitalisation of stores, and actively supports local producers.