An evening to remember: LFRA Gala Awards celebrate leadership and innovation in Large Format Retail
The Large Format Retail sector came together in style on 21st August at Crown Palladium to celebrate the 26th anniversary of the Large Format Retail Association and the achievements of its members at the 2025 Gala Awards.
With nearly 478,000 Australians employed and almost a quarter of national retail sales generated by the sector, the evening highlighted the scale, innovation, and economic impact of Large Format Retail.
The Gala, now in its fourth year, remains the only awards program dedicated to recognising excellence in Large Format Retail. It provides a platform for Large Format Retail Association members to benchmark success and celebrate outstanding contributions across the sector.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Ian Robinson OAM, Large Format Retail Association past president and Executive Chairman of Beacon Lighting.
Starting his career at just 18, Ian built Beacon Lighting into a national powerhouse with over 130 stores. Beyond his business success, he has shaped the industry as a founding member of Large Format Retail Association and as its President for 14 years, mentoring generations of leaders and driving initiatives like the Overseas Study Tours to bring global best practice to Australia.
Ahead of presenting the Award to Mr Robinson during the evening, Zac Fried, President of the Large Format Retail Association and Executive Deputy Chairman, Spotlight Group, said, “Throughout his life, Ian has shown remarkable resilience and persistence, both in business and personally. That same determination, to protect, to endure, and to never give up, has been a defining trait throughout his journey.”
Philippa Kelly, Chief Executive Officer, Large Format Retail Association, said, “Ian Robinson’s vision, resilience, and passion have transformed the Large Format Retail landscape in Australia. He has built successful businesses but also mentored generations, a legacy that continues to inspire our sector today.”
From bold marketing campaigns to sustainable building practices and operational innovation, the Awards highlighted the sector’s leadership, creativity, and commitment to community and environmental responsibility, reinforcing the role of the Large Format Retail Association Gala Awards as the definitive recognition of achievement in Large Format Retail.
Congratulations to all nominees, and including the following Awards recipients:
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Ian Robinson OAM
- Warwick Shedden Memorial Award: Andrew Marks
- Large Format Retailer of the Year: Revo Fitness
- Agent of the Year (Individual): Jeff Klopper, Vend Property Group
- Centre of the Year: Maroochydore Homemaker
- Associate Member of the Year: Leffler Simes Architects
- Development of the Year: Spotlight Hervey Bay Centre by Spotlight Property Group
- Best Sustainability Initiative: IKEA Australia & New Zealand and Maroochydore Homemaker
- Marketing Campaign (Retailer): IKEA Australia & New Zealand “50 Years, just the beginning” and Provincial Home Living “Mums who inspire us”
- Marketing Campaign (Associate Member): Macgregor Homemaker opening
- Best Application of an Innovation: ProGrind Australia “Cure and Polish”
The evening was also an opportunity to give back. The Large Format Retail Association Gala supported its charity partner Good360 Australia, whose incredible work over the past ten years, led by Alison Covington AM and her dedicated team, has connected businesses with Australians in need by distributing excess new goods to families and communities doing it tough. Through the evening’s online auction, generously supported by Large Format Retail Association Members, the Gala raised $32,000 which will go towards providing essential items to those in need.
Entertainment included comedian Pete Helliar, the Baker Boys Band, and DJ Katie Weston, adding energy and fun to a night that blended celebration, recognition, and networking.
As Large Format Retail Association Chief Executive Officer Philippa Kelly said, “The Gala Awards celebrate individual and organisational success but importantly, the vital role Large Format Retail plays in the Australian economy. From jobs and investment to innovation and community impact, this sector sets the benchmark for excellence. Our sector is a community of innovators, leaders, and visionaries committed to shaping the future of Australian retail.
The Large Format Retail Association Board determined the recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Warwick Shedden Memorial Trophy. A special thank you to the 2025 judging panel, who reviewed and assessed the remainder of the Award submissions. Thank you to Steve Adamson, Former LFRA Vice-President & Director, 2019 Warwick Shedden Award Recipient, and Real Estate Director at Five Guys International, Kate Warwick, Senior Managing Partner, FTI Consulting, Stuart Harker, Chairman, Retail Advisory Board; Non-Executive Director, Ball Magnets, former PwC Partner and 2018 Warwick Shedden Award Recipient, and Philippa Kelly, Chief Executive Officer & Director, LFRA, for their expertise and dedication in recognising excellence across the industry.
