Ritchies won Supermarket of the Year – Australia in the Retail Asia Awards 2026. Australia’s “largest and oldest” independent retailer secured the accolade after a major transformation of its Balnarring store on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria between 2023 and 2025.
The redevelopment project expanded the total store footprint by 40%.
“The company invested over AU$10 million to improve the internal and external facade of the building, alongside upgraded roofing, flooring, and amenities,” said Ritchies Stores CEO-Elect Wayne Harrison. “This expansion enabled a significant repositioning toward fresh food offerings, with key departments like meat, produce, deli, bakery, chicken, and sushi substantially enlarged.”
Additionally, the liquor section doubled in size and welcomed a dedicated wine tasting room for daily sampling. Other experiential additions included a fresh food theatre with a centralised cut fruit and juice station, a mechanical rotating seafood display, and an in-store meat servery for customised cuts. The bakery department also introduced specialty equipment such as a donut machine and a popcorn station.
Sustainability and social responsibility formed a key part of the store design.
“Ritchies adopted carbon dioxide refrigeration systems and environmentally conscious building materials. The store also set up dedicated donation and recycling stations where customers contribute food, pet supplies, toys, books, for donation back to the community,” said Mr Harrison.
The strategic changes yielded measurable commercial results.
“Total store sales increased by more than 35% after the reopening, driven by a wider range, increased footage, and improved layouts. Fresh categories grew to account for nearly 50%of total sales, which helped improve gross margins through a curated selection of premium gourmet products and local merchandise,” he said.
The stores redevelopment was assisted by Metcash Ltd, Ritchies wholesale distributor, and The Retail Group, who designed the store.
The location now stands as Ritchies second-highest trading store in Victoria.
The Retail Asia Awards highlights the pinnacle of excellence, innovation, and leadership within the retail industry across the Asia Pacific region. It serves as a benchmark of success, honouring companies and individuals who have made remarkable contributions to shaping the future of retail.
