Independents are being given the chance to win a free day's consultancy with the small and medium-sized business expert Alex Polizzi in a competition being organised by Autumn Fair International and energy supplier Npower.
Ms Polizzi, who is famed for her role supporting small businesses on television shows The Hotel Inspector and Alex Polizzi: The Fixer, will provide one-to-one support and advice for the winning retailer on anything from customer service to cash flow.

The competition is part of a wider partnership which will also see Alex Polizzi share her business advice and inspiration with retailers at Autumn Fair International on September 1. Npower will also be at the event, talking to visitors about their energy-related challenges and how effective energy management can improve their bottom line.

Jason Scagell, director of Npower SME, commented: "We know that small firms are under a lot of pressure in the current economic climate and they may not always have the time or resources to take a step back and look at ways they can improve their business, so we're delighted to be able to offer small retailers this exclusive opportunity. Alex has extensive experience of working in small, family run businesses, so she'll be able to provide invaluable consultancy to the winning business."

To enter the competition visit http://www.autumnfair.com/Content/Win-a-business-consultation-with-Alex-Polizzi The competition is open now and entries close at 5pm on September 21 2013.

Said Ms Polizzi: "The prime focus for most independent retailers is the day-to-day running of their business, but I hope my insight and advice will help them to look at the bigger picture and assist them in developing their future plans."

Autumn Fair takes place at Birmingham's NEC September 1-4.