The business nous exhibited by Brazcom Imports, Sly Underwear and Harlequin School Bags has earned each company a spot in the 2011 Telstra Business Award finals.
Now in its 19th year, the Telstra Business Awards aim to celebrate the successes of local small to medium businesses. The annual program bestows awards at a state and territory level, with all state winners going on to compete for national titles.
State finalists in 2011 include South Australia's Brazcom Imports, an importer and distributor of 'biocosmetic' apparel. Products in its stable include women's shapewear brand Scala BioPromise, and the Lisca Smart Memory Bra, which contains foam that expands and contracts in response to body temperature changes.
The company was established in 2008 by Lucimar and Tim Nielsen and the business has over 100 independent stockists including Innerware (SA), La Figure Lingerie (VIC) and The Bra Bar (WA).
In Queensland, state finalists include Sly Underwear. Founded three years ago by then 17-year-old Dan Murray, the men's underwear business now has over 200 stockists and employs 14 people. Murray is planning to branch into women's underwear and US distribution in coming months.
In NSW, finalists include specialist bag company Harlequin School Bags. Established by Penelope Montague-Curry approximately 15 years ago, the company now carries more than 200 styles of bags including eco-friendly designs, sports bags, library and art bags and the ubiquitous backpack.
In addition to wholesaling to Australian schools, Harlequin School Bags exports worldwide and sells to consumers online.
Winners across all states and territories will be announced at a series of gala dinners to be held throughout July. The Telstra Business Award 2011 national winners will be revealed on Friday August 26 at a ceremony in Victoria. Award recipients share in prizes worth more than $500,000.
Previous national winners include Ripe Maternity and Footwear Industries.