In the quiet village of Tuxford, Nottinghamshire, lives a man whose name has come to symbolise more than just retail excellence—it stands for service, sacrifice, and sincere humanity. Jagrupe Singh Binnig, the former owner of the beloved village store and now a New Business Manager at Bestway Wholesale, has recently been honoured with the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s New Year’s Honours list. This recognition is not just a personal triumph—it is a celebration of a family and a life lived in devotion to the people around him.
Jagrupe Singh Binnig: Rooted in Tuxford, Grown Through Generosity
Since 1989, the Binnig family has been a pillar of the Tuxford community. When Jagrupe took over the family-run village store in 2002, he inherited more than a business—he inherited a legacy of connection. Over the years, the shop transitioned through various identities: from a non-affiliated retailer to Premier, Select & Save, and finally as a Costcutter for the last ten years of its operation under Jagrupe’s leadership.
The store was more than a point of sale—it was a lifeline. Whether offering a kind word, sharing a laugh, or going the extra mile to source an essential item, Jagrupe and his family operated with a level of care that transformed customers into neighbours and neighbours into extended family.
The Heroism of Everyday Acts
When the COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, Jagrupe Singh Binnig stood tall. Amid fear and uncertainty, the Binnig family became a beacon of reliability. They ensured the community never went without—delivering essential groceries, offering support to the elderly and vulnerable, and even preparing and distributing school meals in the form of sandwiches to children in need. These quiet yet profound acts of humanity were not driven by recognition, but by a deep-seated belief in doing what’s right.
“I am deeply humbled to receive this honour,” Binnig said in response to his BEM award. “My family and I have always believed in supporting our community in any way we can. It’s a privilege to be recognised for something that has been such a rewarding part of our lives.”
Jagrupe Singh Binnig: From Shopkeeper to Strategic Leader
Two years ago, Jagrupe passed the torch, leasing out the store that had shaped his life. But his journey didn’t end—rather, it evolved. Today, he serves as New Business Manager at Bestway Wholesale, one of the UK’s largest and most influential independent wholesale groups, serving over 125,000 retailers and caterers nationwide.
In his role, he oversees the development and onboarding of new retailers across six regions: Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Derbyshire, and Peterborough. He is responsible for growing major retail brands including Costcutter, Best-One, Bargain Booze, Wine Rack, and Simply Fresh. His personal experience as a retailer gives him a unique advantage—he doesn’t just understand numbers; he understands people.
His hands-on expertise, gained over 38 years in the sector, makes him not just a leader but a trusted advisor. From store design and layout to profitability strategies, Jagrupe’s mission remains unchanged: helping others grow and thrive.
Beyond Business: A Life of Passion and Purpose
Behind the business suit lies a man of many layers. Jagrupe Singh Binnig is not just a retail expert or community champion—he is also a mentor, a school governor, a proud football coach, and even a national cup-winning team leader. These roles are more than hobbies—they’re reflections of his love for teamwork, mentorship, and giving back.
And in a light-hearted twist, he is also a Lord—complete with a certificate! But even with such honours, Jagrupe remains grounded. He believes that titles matter far less than actions, and his life is the embodiment of that belief.
A Lasting Impact that Transcends Awards
Jamie Davison, Retail Director at Bestway, perhaps captured it best:
“This incredible recognition highlights Jagrupe’s outstanding contributions to the community, reflecting his dedication to making a positive impact in local areas.”
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