Bellarine Wholefoods wins award for customer service

BELLARINE Wholefoods has been celebrated for its commitment to customer service, taking home the top prize at the Bellarine North Rotary’s annual Service Excellence Awards

The Drysdale-based business stocks a broad range of high-quality wholefoods –meaning foods that are minimally processed, in their natural state, without any added chemicals or preservatives – from pantry staples to sweet treats, with the aim of catering to every diet.

Owner Alyssa McGuire said winning the award was a “proud moment” for the business which celebrated its second birthday last month.

“It was a really special award to win for us because it really aligns with our business’s core values,” she said.

“We really strive to treat our customers the best and it was really nice to be acknowledged for that.”

A key part of the Bellarine Wholefoods’ ethos is getting to know, and caring about, everyone that comes through the doors.

“We have quite a good customer base now and I pretty much know every single person’s name and coffee order and their life story,” Ms McGuire said.

“It’s just really nice to create a safe place where people feel comfortable to share.

“Everyone just gets to know everyone… and it’s just such a beautiful environment and we’re just so proud that it’s just worked out that way.”

Established in 2014, the Service Excellence Awards support local businesses across the region and spotlight those that display exceptional customer service.

Businesses are nominated by their customers, who submit a short vignette about their experience with the business.

The Rotary Club’s judging panel then select the “story” that illustrates the best level of customer service as the winner.

“Bellarine Wholefoods was commended for assisting a busy mother by packing her purchase in addition to their warmth of welcome,” Bellarine North Rotary’s Bruce Van Every said.

“They had several other customers who also wrote highly complimentary comments.

“In all, over 50 businesses were nominated by satisfied customers demonstrating that personal service is a key aspect of business on the Bellarine.”

On Point Brows and Beauty, located in Drysdale, was also recognised with an award for receiving the most nominations from its customers, while this year’s runners up Bay IT Computers and the Portarlington Post Office both secured highly commended awards.

Bellarine MP Alison Marchant and Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan both attended the presentation celebration, held at the Portarlington Golf Club on May 27, to help present the winners with their awards and each of the nominated businesses with certificates.

Ms McGuire said she was blown away by the feedback Bellarine Wholefoods has received from its customers through the awards process.

“It really helps validate all the hard work and effort that gets thrown into small business, not only from myself but also from my staff.”

To learn more about Bellarine Wholefoods, head to bellarinewholefoods.com.au