Vale businesses celebrate success in challenging times
An increase in local and intrastate tourism has buoyed businesses in the McLaren Vale region, going some way to offset the loss of overseas visitors and impacted export markets.
The past 20 months has seen many of the region’s businesses successfully pivoting operations and managing the impact of restrictions, with results better than hoped at the outset of the pandemic.
A McLaren Vale Business Association spokesperson said that a strong sense of community and continued investment of new business operations starting up over the past 12 months had built confidence in the region.
“As an association, we are extremely proud of the collaborative approach taken by our members, which we feel will hold our members and the broader business community in good stead for the future,” the spokesperson said.
BDO Business Services Director Ryan Wilton says some sectors in the region have performed particularly well throughout the pandemic, while others still have some difficulties to navigate.
“An influx of local and intrastate visitors has been fantastic for the region and somewhat offset the loss of international tourism. Clients in the accommodation industry have been booked out, sometimes months in advance”, he says.
“While there are certainly some challenges ahead for the wine industry, in particular, we expect growth in tourism to continue to benefit the region as a whole.”
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The ‘quiet achievers’ of the region were celebrated at the annual McLaren Vale Business Awards on Friday night, held at Hardy’s Tintara, which the Association has run since 2003 with the support of the local community.
The Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door was a standout winner on the night, taking out both the Business of the Year and New Business categories. Judges were impressed by the Vine Shed’s exceptional application, winning them a $500 print and design voucher from Ink on Paper and $500 cash from Bendigo Bank.
The Environment Award category returned this year in response to community feedback and a broad range of nominations was received. Beyond Beautiful Style Lounge took out the award, sponsored by Peats Soil and Garden Supplies.
BDO in McLaren Vale is a proud supporter of the awards, with Wilton noting the importance of public recognition for businesses in the region.
“The McLaren Vale region is one of SA’s perennial favourites for the range and quality of accommodation, food and wine to be found here. These awards are an opportunity to celebrate that excellence and we’re proud to support them.”
Other winners on the night included She Sews, who took out the hotly contested People’s Choice, and Hall of Fame inductees Ellis Butchers and Willunga Physiotherapy & Pilates.
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2021 McLaren Vale Business Award Winners:
Professional & Business Services: Willunga Physiotherapy & Pilates
Retail: Ellis Butchers
Tourism & Experiences: Fleurieu Arthouse
Trades: Southbound Locksmiths
Environment: Beyond Beautiful Style Lounge
Home Based Business: Unveiling SA
Hospitality: Harry’s Deli @ Wirra Wirra
New Business: Vine Shed Venue & Cellar Door
Employee: Sue Turner – Willunga Physiotherapy & Pilates
People’s Choice: She Sews
