Drakes Supermarkets hosted its 17th annual Supplier Conference on 8-12 October at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, set on the iconic Four Mile Beach in Queensland.
The exclusive five-day event brought together Drakes executives, valued supplier partners and their families, for a mix of business, entertainment and relaxation in one of Australia’s most stunning tropical settings.
The conference opened with a Sip & Dip poolside welcome dinner at the picturesque Mirage Resort, where guests enjoyed food, drinks and live entertainment. The evening ended with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky, setting the tone for the exciting days ahead.
“Drakes’ success only exists because of the strength of the relationships we have with our supplier partners. It’s not luck, it’s not good timing – it’s partnership. The Drakes Supplier Conference is about celebrating these relationships with not just the people we do business with, but with their families as well,” said John-Paul Drake, Director of Drakes Supermarkets.
Drakes Supermarkets Director John-Paul Drake.
The second day featured a business session led by Drakes executives, who shared an overview of the company’s achievements over the past year and outlined key plans for the year ahead. Guests were inspired by Olympic gold medalist Steven Bradbury and mathematician, comedian and author Adam Spencer. A highlight of the session was the open mic Q&A, which allowed suppliers to engage directly with Drakes executives in a candid forum. The session ended on a high note with a hypnosis comedy show by Haiming Jiang.
The Supplier Gala Awards Dinner, presented in an elegant black and white theme, celebrated the achievements of the Drakes’ suppliers and acknowledged their commitment to the Drakes business. Guests were also treated to an unforgettable performance by renowned Australian music ensemble The Ten Tenors.
Drakes Supermarkets Managing Director Roger Drake.
“We are extremely grateful to our suppliers for taking the time to attend our conference. Widely recognised within the industry as one of the most informative, open, and honest events, it’s an opportunity for the Drakes team to share valuable insights and outline our future direction,” said Roger Drake, Managing Director.
“As a proud family-owned business, we’re especially pleased that our conference welcomes not only our valued suppliers, but their families as well. It sold out this year; so, I would recommend suppliers to register early as it is the best value conference you will ever attend!”.
2025 Drakes Supermarkets Supplier Award winners
Grocery Account Manager of the Year: Jason Knowles, McCains Foods Australia Pty Ltd
Fresh Foods Account Manager of the Year: Daniel Mazurke, Tip Top Bakeries
The Guido Manzueto Memorial Award: Andrew Spriggs, Don’s Smallgoods
Product Launch of the Year: Solo Energy
Frozen Supplier of the Year: McCain’s Foods Australia Pty Ltd
Dairy Supplier of the Year: Don’s Smallgoods Pty Ltd
Tobacco Supplier of the Year: Imperial Brands Australasia
General Merchandise Supplier of the Year: Energizer Australia
Non-Foods Supplier of the Year: Real Pet Food Company
$8M+ Supplier of the Year: Asahi Beverages
$4 to $8M Supplier of the Year: Mars Wrigley
Non-Fresh up to $4M Supplier of the Year: Vittoria Coffee
Ready to Eat Supplier of the Year: JL King & Co
Produce Supplier of the Year: Mitolo Family Farms
Bakery Supplier of the Year: Riviera Bakery
Deli & Seafood Supplier of the Year: Ingham’s Enterprises
Meat Supplier of the Year: Slape & Sons
Support Services Supplier of the Year: Jarvis Marketing.
