IGDS WDSS AWARDS 2025

The 16th IGDS WDSS celebrated in Seoul two remarkable industry recognitions : the ‘World’s Best Sales Associate at a Department Store’ and ‘The Most Innovative Department Store in the World’ awards.

 The World’s Best Sales Associate at a Department Store

This award has been at the forefront of honouring and recognizing the importance of Sales Associates since 2015, who serve as ultimate ambassadors of a brand’s DNA and culture. Michelle Curtin, Personal Shopping Manager of Brown Thomas, Ireland, was crowned as the winner of this prestigious award. Handing over the trophy, Jury Chairman Julius Carrell, Head of Global Sales & Marketing of Enactor, explained “Michelle represents people who are exceptional in their fields.” In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Michelle revealed “This magical moment would not be possible without the support of our CEO Donald McDonald, whose belief in the power of people and experiences continue to shape and motivate our success.” The two other finalists were Hicham Ziboukh from Nordstrom, USA, and Helve Eelmäe from Kaubamaja, Estonia. 

Jury Members: Ameesha Prabhu, Co-Founder & CEO of TRRAIN, India; Dimas Gimeno, CEO of WOW Concepts & former CEO of El Corte Ingles; Maria Stanford, People & Talent Director at WSH, UK; Sunny Setiawan, Director of Pancaran Pesona Nusantara, Indonesia; Jury Chairman: Julius Carrell, Head of Global Sales & Marketing of Enactor, UK

The Most Innovative Department Store in the World 

The award recognizes truly exceptional world players that have demonstrated innovation and outstanding performances in all retail aspects. This competition was open to department stores across the world, from small to large to premium or luxury. Central Department Store, Thailand was declared the winner of this award. Jury Chair Yeonah Choi, Chief Marketing Officer North Asia of L’Oréal Luxe said, “Central is proof that there is life for department stores.” In her acceptance speech, Natira highlighted, “At Central, we believe in creating spaces that connect – not just products to people, but people to each other. This award is more than a recognition of innovation; it reflects what is possible when we stay true to our vision and never stop moving forward.” The two other finalists were Lotte Department Store, and Selfridges & Co, UK.

Jury Members: Hiroishi Onishi, former CEO of Isetan Mitsukoshi, Japan; Paolo de Cesare, President of Grandi Stazioni Retail, Italy; Philippe Schaus, former CEO of Moet Hennessy, France; Terry O'Connor - former CEO of Matahari, Singapore and Advisor of Bain & Co; Jury Chairwoman: Yeonah Choi, Chief Marketing Officer North Asia of L’Oréal’s Luxe Division. 

For any award related queries, please contact Ameya Sharma (ameya.sharma@igds.org).

Winners and finalists of the IGDS WDSS Awards 2025 in Seoul

From Left : Werner Studer, Executive Director of IGDS; Jong Hwan Kim, Store Director of Lotte Store Jamsil; Fanya Chandler, President of Nordstrom Stores; Yeonah Choi, CMO North Asia of L’Oréal Luxe; Leonie Foster, COO of Selfridges & Co; André Maeder, CEO of Selfridges & Co; Michelle Curtin, Personal Shopping Manager of Brown Thomas; Natira Boonsri, CEO of Central Department Store; Gabriele Chung, CEO of Lotte Department Store; Julius Carell, Head of Global Sales & Marketing at Enactor.