Autobarn franchisees recognised at annual awards evening

Sarah Stowe

Retail automotive accessories franchise Autobarn celebrated its top performing franchisees at an awards evening in Auckland recently.

More than 650 Autobarn franchisees and supplier partners attended the black tie event, which followed on from five days of trade shows and conferences.

The top honour was awarded to Autobarn Noarlunga franchisees Trent and Samantha Bromley, who were named the brand’s Franchisees of The Year for 2012/13.

This is the third time the pair has taken out the prestigious title since joining the brand in November 2002.

When they received the award for the second time in 2012, the Bromley’s were the first franchisees in the history of Autobarn to win twice, and this third win no doubt places them firmly in the history books.

Paul Dumbrell, CEO at both Metcash Automotive and Automotive Brands Group said “This award recognises Trent and Samantha’s commitment to the continued growth of their business.

“We would also like to thank both Trent and Samantha for their valuable input in the numerous committees they have been a part of over the last eleven years. Your input and honesty has been valuable in us as a group building every stores business and the Autobarn Brand as a whole.”

Trent said he and Samantha were extremely proud to take out the national award for a third time. “We have over the last 10 years continued to re-invest into our business and in September 2012 moved our store to a new larger site.

“We have a great team of local staff that support our goals of providing high levels of customer service and product knowledge to our valued customers. Many dedicated people at Automotive Brands Group have given us great support in relocating the store and making it a success,” he added.

Other award winners were:

  • QLD State Franchisee of the Year  – Autobarn Townsville
  • NSW/ACT State Franchisee of the Year – Autobarn Coffs Harbour
  • VIC/TAS/SA/WA State Franchisee of the Year – Autobarn Noarlunga
  • Rookie of the Year – Autobarn Wagga Wagga
  • Encouragement Award – Autobarn Mackay
  • Hall of Fame – George Kallinikos
  • Supplier of the Year – Nulon
  • Supplier of the Year (Automotive Brands Group) – TDJ
  • Sales Representative of the Year – Michael Woodhouse (Motoractive)

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