The following article appeared in The Beacon December 2, 2004

Willow Books is Retailer of the Year

Willow Books & Café in Acton has received the 2004 RAMAE Award for Retailer of the Year.

The Retailers Association of Massachusetts has singled out a total of seven area retailers, including Willow Books, for their innovative practices and contributions to Massachusetts’ $90 billion retail industry. This marks the seventh annual RAMAE’s which were established in 1995 as a way to recognize excellence in retailing, particularly among small businesses.

Winners were honored at a luncheon ceremony November 18 at the Omni Parker House. The event, which followed RAM’s annual meeting of the membership, featured Senate President Robert M. Travaligni as the keynote speaker.

The awards are organized into seven categories: Advertizing & Promotion; Community Service; Creative Concepts; Display; Rookie of the Year; Retailer of the Year; and Hall of Fame

Willow Books first opened its doors in November 1996, and within a short period of time, established itself as one of the area’s premier bookstores and one of the largest independent bookstores in New England. The store stocks more than 100,000 titles and features books, magazines and distinctive cards. The attached café was added to provide a place where people in the community could meet, discuss books, and have lunch or a snack with some of the best coffee drinks and desserts available. Ever since it opened, the café has had live jazz performances every Friday night, and admission is free.

Founded by Acton resident, David Didriksen, a book industry professional who gave up the corporate world to pursue a dream, Willow Books & Café was built upon two governing principles: professional excellence and customer service. As a locally owned and operated Independent, Willow Books & Café offers an unique retail experience: a neighborhood bookstore with the selection of a superstore and the heart of a family business.

Willow Books is deeply committed to the Acton community, and gives thousands of dollars each year to schools, sports programs, food pantries, churches, and Boy and Girl Scout troops.