Coles Liquor has recognised 11 businesses for excellence at the 2023 Coles Liquor Awards.

The ceremony followed the 2023 Coles Liquor Supplier Forum, which was held at Marvel Stadium in Docklands, Victoria.

Coles hosted more than 330 suppliers and partners at the forum, which kicked off with GM Commercial Chris Tabois discussing the strategic direction the company is taking for the journey ahead.

It was also an opportunity for new Coles Liquor CEO Michael Courtney to introduce himself to suppliers. Courtney has spent took over the job from Darren Blackhurst earlier this month.

Previously Courtney led the Coles Express business for four years, delivering a winning strategy in the petrol and convenience market and overseeing a successful transition to Viva Energy. Most recently Michael spent the past six months in the eCommerce business, transforming Coles’ customer offer.

Coles Liquor Awards winners

• Sustainability Partner of the Year – Brick Lane Brewing Community
• Local Supplier of the Year – Yering Station, Rathbone Wine Group
• Beer Supplier of the Year – Carlton & United Breweries
• Wine Supplier of the Year – Accolade Wines
• Spirits Supplier of the Year – Campari Group
• Ready To Drink Supplier of the Year – Billson’s
• Supply Chain Partner of the Year – Lion
• Product Launch of the Year – Vodka Cruiser Double Range Asahi Beverages
• Ecommerce Partner of the Year – UberEats
• Exclusive Label Product Collaboration of the Year – Brewmanity Beer Co. Slider Cold XPA
• Exclusive Liquor Brand Supplier of the Year – Australian Vintage

Liquor winners at Coles Group awards

Following the announcement of the Coles Liquor 2023, some liquor partners took part in the at the 2023 Coles Supplier Awards the following night.

Hosted in Melbourne, the Awards recognised 16 businesses for excellence in a variety of categories.

Campari Australia was announced as Liquor Supplier of the Year for their customer offering, partnering with Coles on its glassware loyalty campaign to offer customers great shopping bonuses, while driving awareness and education of its products and pairings. 

Australian Vintage won Exclusive Liquor Supplier of the Year for its consumer-centred communications including partnerships with Justine Schofield and The Butcher’s Cellar and Meatstock association, and its commitment to sustainability through repurposing alcohol removed from non-alcoholic products. 

Brick Lane was a finalist for Sustainability Partner of the Year, while Brewmanity Beer’s Slider Cold XPA was a finalist for Product Launch of the Year.

Milestone first day for new Coles Liquor CEO