Sydney retailer Opus Design has just been announced as the gia Australia winner and will represent the country at next year’s gia Awards in Chicago.
In partnership with Reed Gift Fairs, Giftguide selects the winner from the list of GALA Awards finalists and again this year the quality of entries was very high.
Opus Design owner, Chris Tourgelis, says winning the award means the world to him.
“To be recognised by industry peers in Australia and internationally is a wonderful feeling,” he says.
“We entered the GALA Awards as I felt that it was time for my hard working team to be recognised for their achievements. Opus turns 50 in 2018 and this sort of recognition was an important part of celebrating this amazing milestone.”
Opus Design is operated by Tourgelis and his family and all 30 staff members are seen as part of an extended family.
“It comes down to allowing each member of the team to keep evolving and growing through the organisation. As the business grows it allows staff to venture into new areas that they find a particular connection with. By nurturing this talent we ensure a higher level of performance and loyalty. Key staff are also encouraged to further their knowledge through education and training as well,” he adds.
Tourgelis is constantly looking for new ways to help the business grow and built a state of the art premises in Paddington two years ago. The two-level building covers about 400 square metres of retail space and includes a passenger lift. The lifestyle store is stunningly merchandised and provides customers with a beautiful shopping experience that could take an hour to really see properly.
“Our flagship store is on an international level and it houses thousands of the best gifts from all over the world. The store has high staffing levels on both floors to ensure that customers receive attentive service every time. Our merchandising team also ensures that the store looks and feels amazing as well,” he enthuses.
Tourgelis will travel to Chicago next March to compete with 26 other retailers from around the world for the coveted global gia Award.
“Opus as a company pushed very hard this year to be at the top of our game. This award is meaningful to the family and all of our staff who worked tirelessly to grow and to innovate.
“After 20 years of being part of the OPUS business and the gift industry I feel that I have finally achieved my dream. I am very thankful for this opportunity to show what Opus can do on an international level.”
By Marion Gerritsen
