Awards highlight community spirit

Bricks and mortar retailers have a harder task persuading people to abandon their tablet computers and mobile apps in favour of a traditional shopping trip.

But that personal touch, local relationships and a sense of supporting community business still have the power to enhance the human retailing experience better than online stores.

I strongly believe there is a place for both.

That’s why it was a pleasure to be invited to be a judge of the Newmarket Business Association’s (NBA) annual awards celebrating the Newmarket shopping area of Auckland this week. My category – ‘‘Best Customer Experience’’ – goes to the heart of any business and can be a powerful differentiator in securing success.

The event, which was held at Auckland War Memorial Museum, is in its fifth year and is itself a demonstration of the wider community pulling together with Bayleys and Auckland City BMW stepping in an sponsors.

NBA is one of the largest business organisations of its type in New Zealand. Its chief operating officer, Mark Knoff-Thomas said, ‘‘Every year our awards give us the opportunity to reflect on what we have on offer in Newmarket. There was such a warm sense of community and pride. It was a lot of fun, a giant celebration and was delivered in typical Newmarket style.’’

Among the winners of 13 categories was Michael Holmes Premium Eyewear, which was named retailer of the year, Kathryn Wilson Footwear, which was named employer of the year, and Cali All Day Eatery which took the prize for the best customer service.

Guest speaker for the night was New York-based Kiwi Derek Handley, social entrepreneur and founder of Aera Foundation, an organisation promoting greater contribution towards others. The event was a demonstration of the perils of isolation through a misguided idea of competition, and the success which can follow for all by celebrating and supporting your neighbours.