Bay retail stores take top awards

SPARKLING: Hastings' Grieve Diamond Jeweller managing director Robert Griffiths and assistant manager James Griffiths are the best in their field, winning the Retail NZ Jewellery and Giftware Top Shop award. PHOTO/DUNCAN BROWN

Four Hawke's Bay retailers won awards in the Retail NZ Lower North Island Top Shop Awards.

Taradale florist beauKayes won a People's Choice award at the event on Thursday night.

It has been in business for just 16 months but the six staff members with more than 100 years' combined experience has helped build a loyal following.

"Teamwork got us the award," owner Kaye van Booma said.

The Havelock North branch of New Zealand-owned footwear company Ziera won the Fashion and Footwear award.

Manager Heather Ewart said employees sought to empower and support women "to feel and look their best every day".

Hastings' Grieve Diamond Jeweller won the Jewellery and Giftware award.

Robert Griffiths is a third-generation owner of the business. He said the judging process was thorough. It included the store's "wow" factor, presentation, mix of stock, cleanliness, staff service, stock control and a written explanation of the business. Wallace Cotton of Napier was runner-up in the Home and Garden category.

Mr Griffiths said the Wellington awards evening "was quite a party".

"The Retail NZ Top Shop awards celebrate those who have achieved retail excellence over the past year, and aims to lift the bar of retailing in New Zealand," Retail NZ chief executive Mark Johnston said.

"The best stores are selected based on three rigorous rounds of judging - two in-store assessments and a panel selection, across a broad range of store types, including national chains and independent boutiques."