Retail industry body the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is calling for retailers around the nation to enter this year's ARA Australian Retail Awards, with nominations now open until October 25, 2011.
The awards, which will be held on November 15 at a yet undisclosed venue, aim to recognise and reward achievements of individual retail players, the growth and development of retail businesses and contributions towards retailing in Australia.
Nominations will be split across six categories including the major Visa Australian Retailer of the Year award. Other sections will cover: Australian Retail Employer of the Year, Australian SME Retailer of the Year, Australian Independent Retailer of the Year, Australian Retail Innovator of the Year, and Australian Retail Graduate of the Year.
ARA executive director Russell Zimmerman said the awards would serve to recognise and encourage those retailers who are still being creative and making headway despite the tough retail environment.
“Despite the difficulties retail is facing, we know there are retailers out there seizing opportunities to be innovative, prosperous and remain competitive both globally and by making a real impact on their community,” he said.
“Many retailers are small business owners trying to make a living just like all Australians. The awards cater for smaller retailers right through to medium businesses and large enterprises, all of which play a vital role in the economy and collectively employ 1.2 million people.”
Each of the six award categories has separate eligibility criteria.
For further information and nomination forms go to www.australianretailawards.com.au, call1300 368 041 or email awards@retail.org.au.