Winning small store of the year is all thanks to the staff and community, Lake H\u0101wea FreshChoice’s owner says.<\/p>\n
In Melbourne late last month Lake H\u0101wea FreshChoice was victorious at this year\u2019s annual FreshChoice awards.<\/p>\n
Owners and operators Matt and his partner Dixie Gallaher said they have worked hard to understand how best to support their community when their store opened in 2024.<\/p>\n
“We’ve really focused on how to best serve and support this incredible community, including bringing more local suppliers into our isles.<\/p>\n
“We proudly stock local products that our community loves,” he said.<\/p>\n
Claiming small store of the year while being open since October 2024 Mr Gallaher said it shows that even the smallest stores can get the recognition.<\/p>\n
“It\u2019s a huge reflection on the community because we wouldn’t have been able to get anywhere near without their support.<\/p>\n
Mrs Gallaher said it is a real privilege to receive the award.<\/p>\n
“Even to be nominated was awesome then to hear our names called was amazing,” she said.<\/p>\n
FreshChoice executive general manager Tim Cartwright said the awards highlight the exceptional commitment from owner-operators to understand and serve their communities and the vital partnerships they have with suppliers.<\/p>\n
“All over the country our FreshChoice stores and their owner-operators are integral to the life of the communities they live in, and serve.<\/p>\n
“We are thrilled to recognise and celebrate their incredible contributions, and the positive impact they make within their communities,” he said.<\/p>\n
The annual FreshChoice awards are held to recognise the dedicated work of FreshChoice and their supplier partners.<\/p>\n