The Retail Trust has launched its second ‘Search for a Star’ competition after a successful hunt for the best musical talent in the retail sector last year.

This year’s competition has just begun with applicants asked to apply online before September 10 on www.retailtrustsearchforastar.com. Entrants need to post a clip of themselves singing and an image either online or via post.

Chief executive of Retail Trust Nigel Rothband said: “We are delighted that Retail Trust Search for a Star is back for its second year and are very much looking forward to celebrating the hidden talents of the retail industry. This year’s winner, Nicola Cassells blew everyone away with her rendition of Time to Say Goodbye and was crowned champion at the Retail Trust London Ball. Our second year is going to be even bigger and better as we un-earth the next group of stunning talent.  We are there to champion those in retail in good times as well as tough ones.”

The winner of the competition will get a chance to meet with top industry executives at Mercury Music Group and record their own single.

Arcadia Group owner Sir Philip Green said:  “It’s great to see that Retail Trust Search for a Star is again this year encouraging people to demonstrate their passions and talents, whilst supporting our industry charity, and I look forward to another tightly fought contest.” 

Executive chairman at M&S Sir Stuart Rose said:  “Retail Trust is the un-sung hero of our industry considering the vast amount of work they do and this is a fantastic way to sing the charity’s praises for all the hard work they do.  Not only does Retail Trust Search for a Star celebrate talent, it also raises important funds to looking after everyone who works in our sector.”