2020 has been a year like no other, but not even COVID-19 can stop the annual National Retail Awards from proceeding, with keynote speaker Minister Michaelia Cash leading the guest speakers list for the October 15 event.
Hosted by the National Retail Association (NRA), for the first time ever the annual awards will be livestreamed for free as the winners across the various categories are announced.
NRA Deputy CEO Lindsay Carroll said that COVID-19 has shown that retail is essential, and everyone who works in this industry should be celebrated.
“2020 has seen the retail sector and its workforce go above and beyond to service the Australian population during the first pandemic in 100 years,” Ms Carroll said.
“Retail workers have been at the frontline, ensuring that Australians continue to have access to essential items and this year more than ever we should be celebrating the incredible work our industry does.”
“The retail sector has also been one of the hardest hit by the economic storm caused by COVID-19. At a time like this we need to showcase the enormous contribution that retailers make to the Australian economy, providing the country’s second-largest workforce and being the highest employer of young people.”
Winners will be presented across 13 separate categories highlighting the diverse range of skill, expertise and dedication that exists within the retail sector.
“Whether it’s the strides that occur in innovation each year, advances in sustainability or recognising the role of young people, every award acknowledges a key facet that makes retail great.
“Although this year’s event will be a little different as an online ceremony, we will again be fortunate to have an array of special guests, including keynote speakers Minister Michaelia Cash and futurist Steve Sammartino.”
“We’re also keeping some of the Gala fun with an interactive quiz during the event helmed by major event sponsor, Klarna, who will be giving away over $1,000 worth of Prezzee gift cards to the top three quiz masters.”
For the first time ever in its 47-year run, the National Retail Awards will be streamed live on Thursday October 15 at 2pm AEST.
Further details and a full list of finalists can be found online – https://nationalretailawards.com.au/. Registrations to the event are open at https://nationalretailawards.com.au and the first 500 registrants will receive a curated goodie bag.