Awards

The ARA Retail Awards Program recognises leading individuals and businesses operating in Australia's $128 billon retail sector.

The ‘who's who' of Australian retailing will gather for the ARA Retail Awards ceremony held in Sydney on Tuesday 12 August 2008 at the National Retail Forum.

In addition to acknowledging the achievements of retailers, the ARA National Awards Program aims to raise the profile of the retail industry among broader business and consumer markets. With key stakeholders across Australia in attendance, the program provides a great medium for brand exposure, networking, sharing ideas and creating partnerships. To obtain more information about sponsorship opportunities please contact us on 1300 368 041.

Important Dates

Award	Nominations Opened	Nominations Closed	State finalists announced
Retailer of the Year	N/A	N/A	National award only
Independent Retailer of the Year		CLOSED	July
Young Retailer of the Year		Monday, 30 June	July
Retail Innovation of the Year	N/A	N/A	National award only
Media Campaign of the Year	1 June	15 July	National award only

Independent Retailer

This award recognises the contributions of independent retailers to the local community and Australia's the retail industry. It aims to reward the smaller/owner operated type businesses that succeed in this highly competitive market.

The ARA has sought the support of all local governments around the country for ARA Independent Retailer of the Year nominations. The response has been overwhelming in all states - particularly from regional areas.

Nominations are now closed and are being assessed by the judging panel of retail experts. Winners in each State - to be announced in July - will go on to vie for the national title.

Email michael.keaney@retail.org.au for more information.

Retail Innovation

Implementing innovative strategies and displaying corporate social responsibility gives retailers a competitive edge in a cut-throat market. The award recognises retailers who are at the forefront of issues affecting the retail sector and who have displayed ingenuity to address these issues.

More details regarding nominations and criteria are coming soon.

Media Campaign

Deploying an effective mix of media gives retail outlets identity in the market place, allowing businesses to leverage their brand to recruit staff, generate customers, command brand loyalty and ultimately increase sales. The award recognises retailers at the forefront of brand management and creative ad campaigns that add value to the bottom line.

More details regarding nominations and criteria are coming soon.

Young Retailer of the Year

Retail is the largest employer of young people in Australia and the future of the industry is driven by the enthusiasm and spirit of our young employees. Retailing can provide an excellent career track for young Australians and the ARA believes positive role models can provide impetus for our youth to consider a retail career, ultimately assisting recruitment to the sector.

The award showcases the achievements, skills and spirit of young people (under the age of 25) working in the retail sector.

Retailers are encouraged to nominate their best young talent from each outlet across the country. Read through the Young Retailer of the Year criteria or e-mail kath.christie@retail.org.au for more information.

Retailer of the Year

This award recognises outstanding performance by retail chains operating nationally and acknowledges excellence in a number of areas including visual merchandising, customer service, staff training and product selection.

The 2008 nominees for the ARA Retailer of the Year are: David Jones, JB Hi Fi Limited, Noni B Limited, Rebel Sport Limited, Supercheap Auto, Sussan Corporation, The Reject Shop and Woolworths.