The Alabama Retail Association has awarded Retailers of the Year awards every year since 1999. During that time, Selma and Dallas County has been well-represented among some of the state’s best-known businesses.

Chet Chappelle and Rountree Outdoors joined those ranks Tuesday. The store was honored with the silver award during the association’s banquet at the Vestavia Hills Country Club.

Chappelle and his business were honored as one of the state’s top three retailers with annual sales under $1 million.

A big congratulations is due to Chet and everyone that makes Rountree Outdoors one of Alabama’s top retailers. They are joining some great company — other Selma and Dallas County businesses honored in past years included Mark’s Mart, Carter Drug Company and Butler Truax Jewelers.

One of those past winners, Rodney King with Mark’s Mart, was on hand for Tuesday’s banquet.

Sheryl Smedley, executive director of the Selma and Dallas County Chamber of Commerce also made the trip to Birmingham. Smedley was the one who nominated Chappelle and Rountree Outdoors earlier this year.

Smedley and the Chamber should also be congratulated for their work in “cheerleading” our local retailers. Bringing statewide acclaim to our hometown businesses is great, but the Chamber also does much more throughout the year to support the local business community.

The award also serves as a good reminder of the importance of shopping locally. The relationship between retailers and their customers is the foundation of a local economy and progress. Chappelle said the company’s award is going on display in the store to share with customers.

“Our customers mean a lot to us. If it weren’t for our customers, we wouldn’t be doing what we’re doing,” he said.