The Australian Liquor Industry Awards (ALIA) have once again showcased the very best in Australia’s retail liquor industry at an event held at The Fullerton Hotel in Sydney.
Now in its 30th year, ALIA once again brought together the who’s who of Australia’s on- and off-premise liquor trade, celebrating the people, brands and venues that continue to shape and elevate the industry.
The milestone event saw the ballroom transformed into a celebration of 90s pop culture, with Spice Girls, the Backstreet Boys, and a whole lot of double denim setting the stage for an unforgettable night of dancing, laughter and industry celebration.
Hosted by National Liquor News, The Shout, Australian Hotelier, Beer & Brewer and Bars and Cocktails, the ALIAs remain the most anticipated celebration on the industry calendar.
Among the many highlights, Georgia Monaghan from Wilberforce Cellars was named Best Liquor Retail Manager, taking out the title for her energy and modern approach to leadership.
“It’s insane to win, I didn’t even expect to be nominated,” she told National Liquor News. “I think it comes down to having a new look on the industry, from a younger perspective.”
Camperdown Cellars took home the Best Retail Group award, recognised for its consistency, independence, and commitment to customer relationships.
“This is overwhelming. It means a lot – we’re independent and with that there are a lot of challenges,” said Jesse Ball, Operations Assistant at Camperdown Cellars. “But we just do the best that we can always. We have a really good team, and we all work on building good relationships and maintaining them with our customers.”
In the Best Retail Store category, the trophy went to Oldfield Cellars, applauded for its innovative approach and community connection.
“It’s very exciting,” said Garth Oldfield. “Our team works so hard and our key to success has really been difference. As a small country bottle shop, we’re competing with the big players, but if you think outside the box, you get there.”
The trade’s best suppliers and distributors were also honoured, with Australian Liquor Marketers (ALM) awarded Best Off-Premise Distributor or Wholesaler.
“There is a lot of people in this business, so we are very proud to have achieved this,” said ALM’s Travis Hall. “We set ourselves apart by trying to connect with our customers, trying to understand what’s important to them, and we’ve strived to deliver on that promise.”
Lion was named Best Off-Premise Supplier, with Rosie Fay, Brand Manager for Hahn, accepting on behalf of the team.
“This is incredible. Lion has put in a lot of hard work this year. To be recognised in the industry is a massive deal and we are so grateful for the support from all our venues and all our reps – we do this for you.”
Meanwhile, Hard Rated Lemon Lime, from Asahi, took out Best New Product, capping off what has been an exceptional few years for the brand.
“Winning this award is an absolute honour,” said Nick Sargeant, On-Premise Sales Manager. “Hard Rated has been on a bit of a rocket ship over the last couple of years, and it wouldn’t be there without the support of our customers, partners and consumers. Its success has been driven by flavour – citrus is in big time and people are loving it.”
Although unable to attend on the night, Nicks Wine Merchants was named Best Online Liquor Retailer, recognised for its pioneering role in the e-commerce liquor space.
Managing Director Alex Chlebnikowski told National Liquor News the win was a proud moment for the long-running family business.
“Receiving this award is a fantastic result for the four generations of our family and all of the staff that have worked at Nicks Wine Merchants over the last 50 years, including over 30 years online,” he said.
He credited Nicks’ success to its global product sourcing and dedication to quality.
“We search the world for quality products at globally competitive prices to ensure customers are offered a selection that could often only be purchased when on an overseas holiday. Quality is paramount. Quality never becomes unfashionable and often means price is less important in the customer’s purchase decision.”
Looking ahead, Chlebnikowski said innovation and service remain at the heart of the business.
“Maintaining simplicity through clear communication, a strong commitment to customer service, and continuous investment in new technology to enhance our overall offering.”
Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners of the 2025 ALIAs. And stay tuned for the December issue of National Liquor News for more comprehensive coverage of the awards.