Four retail companies from SA, WA and Tasmania were named as state winners in the 17th annual Telstra Business Awards.
Edible Blooms and The Trademan from South Australia, Sea to Summit from Western Australia and Brighton Hardware from Tasmania have been recognised for their use of technology in their operations.
“While they are a diverse range of businesses, they’ve used online technology, mobile phones and enhanced communications technologies to promote their businesses, win new customers and grow their businesses,” said Telstra business group managing director, Deena Shiff, who is also the Telstra Business Awards ambassador.
These businesses will now take part in the national Telstra Business Awards in Sydney on 20 August, where they can win up to $400,000 in cash and prizes.
Other retail companies including Envirosax, Smartrider, Shieldcoat, Rapid Induct and Sassy Divas were also recognised for their achievements during the awards.
Shiff said the retail industry was well represented in this year’s awards and were amongst some strong competition.
“Retail businesses stood out this year with our judges impressed by their innovation, staff management and retention, strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and good web presences,” she said.
Shiff said Telstra was committed to helping the retail trade and other small and medium-sized businesses succeed.
“We understand the unique needs of retail businesses and can help them to succeed by providing services and solutions, as well as by working in partnership with them to help their business thrive into the future.
“The Telstra Business Awards are part of this commitment. Each year Telstra invests months of work and millions of dollars to assess the hundreds of entries to find those businesses which really shine.
“We make such a significant undertaking because we want to work with small and medium businesses to help them realise their potential and receive the recognition they deserve,” she said.