SPAR Australia has wrapped up another successful Trade Show and Gala Awards Dinner, bringing together retailers, suppliers, directors, and team members to celebrate innovation, partnership, and excellence across the SPAR Australia network.

The event was held at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre from 29 to 31 July.

Celebrating independent retailers

Opening the Trade Show, SPAR Australia Managing Director Lou Jardin recognised independent retailers for their continued investment in store refurbishments, equipment upgrades, and improvements that enhance the shopping experience for customers and local communities.

“These retailers have shown an ongoing commitment to the SPAR brand and to creating stores they are proud of. Their investment strengthens their own businesses and contributes to the success of our wider network,” said Lou Jardin.

Throughout the Trade Show, key suppliers presented their latest products and promotions. The event concluded on Friday 31 July with the annual SPAR Gala Awards Dinner.

The evening opened with the Little SPAR Award, recognising individuals or families who have made an outstanding contribution to the SPAR community over many years. Bob and Judith Little were the first recipients of the honour when SPAR Australia introduced the accolade in 2022 and their name remains linked to the Award today. This year’s recipients were Will and Lisa Guy from the SPAR Richmond supermarket, who have been part of the SPAR network since 2016.

Meanwhile, the SPAR Blackbutt supermarket received the 2026 SPAR Store of the Year Award, while the SPAR Express Urangan store was named SPAR Express Store of the Year. Retailers were also recognised across a range of categories, with the following stores receiving awards:

• SPAR Grocery Award – SPAR Blackbutt supermarket
• SPAR Express Grocery Award – SPAR Express Yamba store
• Dairy/Freezer Award – SPAR Malanda supermarket
• Fresh Food Award – SPAR Sussex Inlet supermarket
• Food To Go Award – SPAR Express Ryke Fuel (Kingaroy) store
• Community/Partnership/Foundation Award – SPAR Jandowae supermarket.

Source: SPAR Australia

Read more about SPAR Australia.

About SPAR Australia

The SPAR brand was first seen in Australia in 1994. The current company was formed in 2006. In late 2010, Jardin Investments Pty Ltd was granted the licence by SPAR International to operate under the brand in this country. The company sub-licenses and supports independent retailers to develop the brand, alongside company-owned stores. In addition, SPAR Australia provides a range of services through its Distribution Centre in Brisbane to retailers.