Grocery chain Aldi has been named the 2016 Eftpos Retailer of the Year at this year’s ARA Australian Retail Awards.
 
Aldi took home the top prize in recognition of its growth, influence and market-leading policies that have seen the chain challenge the majors in its category, says the Australian Retailers Association (ARA).
 
Run by the ARA, the annual awards are the longest running retail recognition program and celebrate the success, innovation and growth of businesses and individuals in the retail industry.
 
“This year’s awards field was particularly tough, with not just the highest number of entries in the award’s 50 year history, but also the highest quality,” says ARA executive director, Russell Zimmerman.
 
“Retail is Australia’s largest private sector employer and the contribution of these businesses to our economy and future cannot be understated. These winners represent the diversity of Australian retailing and the depth of talent we have in this important industry.”
 
Other awards given out include the ARA Independent Retailer of the Year, which went to Wilson Retail, and the Shop for Shops Store Fitout of the Year 1-5 stores and 6+ stores, which were handed to The Sydney String Centre and Specsavers Eastland respectively.
 
“Australian retail today is not only extraordinarily competitive, but the industry is evolving at a rapid pace, with more international brands and the increasing use of technology and new channels,” says Eftpos managing director, Bruce Mansfield.
 
“Eftpos congratulates Aldi on winning the Eftpos Retailer of the Year and all award winners and runners up in 2016. It’s so important to recognise the effort and success of Australian retailers large and small, and we are very pleased to be a supporter.”
 
This article was first published by www.giftguideonline.com.au