Big cheers: time to celebrate!

THE retail network Independent Brands Australia award for the Victorian Cellarbrations of the Year has been won by a Golden Plains outlet.

Cellarbrations at Bannockburn took home the honour during a two-day trade conference at Melbourne’s Crown Casino last month.

IBA is the franchiser for stores like The Bottle-O, IGA Liquor, and Cellarbrations, which are independently owned and operated.

Bannockburn Cellarbrations owner Dion Miles said the award serves as validation for his team’s efforts.

“For us it’s a recognition of not only the store and how we present ourselves, but it’s for the seven staff that work within the business,” he said.

“We’ve been nominated for seven years in a row since we’ve been open so to get it now, the staff are just over the moon.

“We’ve always been about the people. It’s getting to know your customers, and in putting a stamp on the business, it’s imperative to be at the front of what your customers want.”

The judging process was held throughout a four-to-five-month period with visits from two industry inspectors, two supplier inspectors, and anonymous shoppers.

Stores were judged based on areas like customer service, presentation, and knowledge and range of stock.

Mr Miles said the award highlights the store’s dedication to Bannockburn and surrounds.

“This award says a lot about our relationship with the community. They keep us honest. We’re one of those stores where, if we don’t have it, we’ll go hunting and get it in,” he said.

“I feel like our customers are able to approach us and ask for new products or changes wherever they want it. We love the honest feedback.

“This award is a big tick in the box for us.”