Monday, 17 October 2011
Melbourne’s long standing small businesses are invited to participate in the Lord Mayor’s Commendations program which opens on Monday 17 October.
Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said the commendations acknowledge that retail is big business in Melbourne.
“The Lord Mayor’s Commendation program recognises the long-term commitment of independent proprietors. These iconic businesses have often forged a close relationship with their customers while highlighting the outstanding level of service within Melbourne’s business sector.
“Small businesses make up 83 per cent of all businesses in the Melbourne municipality. Through initiatives such as Enterprise Melbourne, the commendations program is about guiding the industry towards a long standing future.
The Lord Mayor’s Commendation program has been running since 2005 and has so far recognised more than 270 applicants that have been operating for longer than ten years.
“Melbourne has a great history of entrepreneurship and it is encouraging to see that since this program began in 2005, 19 business entrants have been awarded the 50 year Platinum Commendation.
“Our city is filled with a number of unique businesses. Melbourne’s history is so rich and wonderful, this prestigious acknowledgement will help cement what these families have worked so hard to achieve,” the Lord Mayor said.
Hospitality icons including Supper Inn restaurant, Golden Orchids Restaurant and Bennetts Lane Jazz Club have all been past recipients of a Lord Mayor Commendations.
There are a total of five categories; Platinum 50+ years, Gold 40+ years, Silver 25+ years, Bronze 10+ years and Generational Family Businesses lasting longer than three or more generations.
Enterprise Melbourne drives economic development throughout the city by offering services which help business growth and attract local investment.
A photographic exhibition showcasing last year's recipients will be held in The Block Arcade from 17 to 31 October 2011.
Eligible businesses are required to submit their entries before Friday 10 February 2012. The presentation ceremony will be held on the Monday 14 May 2012.
For more information about the Lord Mayor’s Commendations visit www.enterprisemelbourne.com.au/commendations