Supermarket industry magazine The Grocer sent the mystery buyer to several supermarkets across the city and beyond to see which is best.

It said the supermarket performed well on availability, praised its layout and helpful staff members who work there.

A spokesperson for The Grocer said: “In keeping with its relatively prosperous 542,000 population, it was Waitrose that took the win this week with 83 points to be crowned Oxford’s best supermarket.

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“The 24,727 sq ft store on Botley Road, just a mile west of the city centre – one of six Waitrose stores in the city – performed well in most areas other than availability, where it registered two items out of stock and two not stocked.

“Nonetheless, our shopper praised the ‘great’ layout and described the store as ‘clean, tidy and litter-free’ with ‘a good range of products available’.

“She also noted it was ‘easy to find a staff member for help’ and felt everyone she interacted with was ‘very knowledgeable about the location of products’.”

Sainsbury’s in Heyford Hill took second place, praised for being “fairly modern” inside while Tesco in Cowley was third and Morrisons in Carterton came in a close fourth.

As reported, Asda in London Road, Wheatley was ranked as the worst by The Grocer’s mystery shopper.

The supermarket was described as “very tired and messy” with “rubbish all over the floor”.

Lisa‑Marie Mallier of No Fluff Communications and Jennifer Williams of Exec Support Solutions and Exec Recruitment Solutions have been named finalists at the National Business Women’s Awards 2026.

Both are shortlisted in the Female Business Leader (under five employees) category.

Ms Mallier said: “Being recognised as a female business leader is incredibly meaningful.

“It reflects the many women building businesses with resilience, clarity and purpose.

“Women often bring a collaborative, considered approach to leadership – balancing commercial outcomes with people and long-term thinking.

“That’s a real strength, and one we’re seeing more across the business community.”

Both women launched their businesses in 2018 and have since built successful, sustainable companies that contribute to the local economy.

No Fluff Communications is a strategic marketing and PR consultancy serving professional services, financial, and franchise businesses across the UK.

Ms Williams runs Exec Support Solutions, which provides virtual PA and business support services.

She also founded Exec Recruitment Solutions, specialising in executive support recruitment.

Ms Williams said: “It’s a real honour to be shortlisted alongside so many inspiring women.

“There are countless female business owners doing exceptional work, often without recognition.

“For me, leadership is about creating opportunities, supporting people to grow, and building strong, effective teams.

“It’s great to see that being recognised on a national stage.”

Both women also host Business Buzz networking events in their respective towns.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London in June.

Snobia Hussain, from Glebefields Care Home in Banbury, was presented with a long-service pin, £250 voucher, and a personal letter of thanks from Barchester Healthcare CEO Dr Pete Calveley.

The tribute marks a decade of commitment to residents and the wider care home community.

Ms Hussain, who was recently promoted to head housekeeper, has held multiple roles during her time at the home.

She said: “Having started my journey here as a housekeeping assistant and then Care Assistant, I have spent years supporting every department and gaining a deep understanding of our residents’ needs.

“I am passionate about creating a premium living experience and my goal is to provide a beautiful, safe environment where our residents feel truly at home to maintain their independence.”

Ms Hussain has also spent time working within the activities team and as a care assistant during her decade of service.

Benazir Shakkir, general manager at Glebefields, said: “Snobia is a shining example of the dedication we value at Glebefields.

“Her journey from care to leadership shows her deep commitment to our residents’ wellbeing, and we are delighted to celebrate this milestone with her.”

Glebefields Care Home supports career growth and encourages long-term development for its staff.