The AACS Women in Convenience program, established to attract, retain and support women within the convenience sector, has launched its inaugural awards program, supported by C&I Retailing Magazine.
The AACS Women in Convenience Industry Awards are to recognise the significant contribution women play in convenience retailing from retailers, wholesalers and supplier communities.
The award categories include; Women of the Year, Rising Star and Store Operator of the Year.
AACS Women in Convenience was established by Caroline Waite of Frucor and Kerry Appathurai of Parmalat in 2014 and is geared towards women in senior and junior roles.
Since its launch, AACS Women in Convenience has held a series of networking events, with past presenters including media and social commentator Mia Freedman.
“We are very proud to launch these awards for the first time this year to the convenience industry in Australia,” Caroline Waite, co-founder of AACS Women in Convenience, said.
“Our ambition is that by recognising the contribution these women are making, we will inspire others, and in doing so we will support, retain and promote others building a more diverse and successful industry into the future,” Kerry Appathurai, co-founder of AACS Women in Convenience, said.
Jeff Rogut, CEO of AACS, said the AACS Women in Convenience Awards is a terrific opportunity to recognise the many talented women who work in the convenience channel as well as to encourage others to see the convenience channel as offering unique and rewarding career opportunities.
Award categories
Women of the Year – Retailer, supplier or wholesaler who has had a significant impact on the success of their direct business as well as a significant impact to the industry as a whole. These nominees will have steered their companies into new markets, new opportunities and have delivered a strong measurable impact.
Rising Star – Retailer, supplier or wholesaler from a non-management level who is making an impact in their company and industry at the early stages of their career. These nominees will be making a positive impact across their business through innovation or creativity in their approach. They will demonstrate challenge to the status quo and be recognised for the changes they have influenced or implemented.
Store Operator of the Year – Women store owners or operators who are making a significant contribution at the front line of the industry. In recognition of the efforts they are making to create a store environment for shoppers that upholds the highest standards of the industry. The nominees will display dedication to exceptional customer service, employee development and will have exceeded business performance goals.
Selection criteria
• Demonstrated leadership, innovation and creativity
• Measurable impact as a result of their actions
• Contribution to the broader convenience channel
• Inspirational for other women in convenience
• Degree of difficulty of the achievement/s.
Eligibility criteria
All nominees must either work for a retailer, supplier or wholesaler directly serving the convenience industry at the time of nomination. The awards are not exclusive to AACS members and achievements must be within the past 12 months.
Award submissions
Nominations are to be submitted in writing (maximum of 500 words) to womeninconvenience@gmail.com.
Nominations are open until July 15, 2016. Entries will not be considered if submitted after July 15, 2016.
Prizes
Award winners will receive recognition in the October/November C&I Retailing Magazine, a double pass to the AACS Annual Summit and Gala Dinner in August, held in conjunction with the C&I Expo and a $500 voucher to Business Chicks to be used at any Business Chicks industry events throughout the year.