The ERA jury will become even more international in 2026 / Dr. Claudia Wasser leaves the committee after more than 10 years
Bielefeld, 18 February 2026 – For the first time, a French national, Sébastien Zott, CEO of Peugeot Saveurs, is joining the independent expert jury of the European Retail Award. He succeeds Claudia Wasser, who is leaving the committee after twelve years of service as a juror, including six years as chairwoman.
Sébastien Zott has been leading the French manufacturer of high-quality tabletop culture products since early 2020. The long-established company has earned an outstanding international reputation since the mid-19th century thanks to its exclusive spice mills and complementary product lines such as wine accessories and ceramics. Holding a master’s degree in Economic and Social Administration (A.E.S.), he describes Peugeot not only as an industrial enterprise but also as a guardian of French cultural heritage in the culinary world.
To secure the manufacturer’s economic future, he focuses on the development of innovative products and the unique positioning of a strong brand. He sees this combination—as well as expertise in the key areas of quality and sustainability—as particularly effective in the specialist retail sector. “I look forward to many inspiring stories from dedicated, creative and forward‑looking retailers who stand out especially for their passion for their craft,” says the new jury member with regard to the upcoming sessions with his colleagues from Germany and the Netherlands.
Dr. Claudia Wasser leaves the jury
She has been involved with the EK Passion Star, the predecessor of today’s European Retail Award, since 2014, serving as jury president for the past six years and as editor‑in‑chief of the trade magazines Trend & Style, KitchenTrend, and TrendWelten published by Göller Verlag (Baden‑Baden). With Claudia Wasser’s departure, the ERA jury loses a proven expert in the European retail landscape.
“Good jurors need a deep connection to the topic, a creative spirit, tireless perseverance, and a strong sense of determination that ultimately makes the difference in the final decisions. With these qualities, Claudia Wasser has significantly shaped the positive development of our award—particularly as jury president. We thank her sincerely,” emphasizes Martin Richrath, CEO of EK Retail.
Application phase for 2026 ends on 20 March
The application phase for the next European Retail Award is already underway and ends on 20 March 2026. Until then, independent non‑food retailers from across Europe can submit their applications and relevant documents online. All information is available at www.europeanretailaward.com.
Afterwards, the jury will select the best companies from all submissions. The next award ceremony will take place on 21 April 2026 at the German headquarters of EK Retail in Bielefeld. “The European Retail Award will then be presented in the categories Innovation, Customer Loyalty, and Sustainability. Additionally, the jury may grant a special award for further outstanding achievements. And of course, all of this will take place in the festive setting of a gala evening,” promises Melina Wosnitza, Senior Marketing Manager at EK.
In addition to the high‑quality design trophy and a certificate for display in the store, the winners can look forward to Europe‑wide media and industry attention, which highlights not only their company but also the retail sector as a key economic driver.
