THE heat is on in the Redlands as finalists of The Commonwealth Bank 2012 Redland Retail Awards go head to head to win their categories.
All finalists are currently being mystery shopped on their quality of service, presentation, product knowledge and selling skills.
Belinda Travers, from BT Marketing, says the quality of retailers in the Redlands just keeps getting better each year.
"We are always astounded at the level of commitment and loyalty that individual staff members have for their employer and the business they work in," she said.
The judging of the winners in each category starts shortly, before the big announcements at the gala awards evening in August.
The Commonwealth Bank 2012 Redland Retail Awards is recognised as the largest retail event in the Redlands, giving attendees fantastic opportunities to network and mingle with the best of the best.
With a Winter Wonderland theme, the gala awards evening will be held at the Sheldon College Event Centre on Saturday, August 4, from 6.30pm.
Guests will wine and dine with entertainment all for only $55 a ticket or $520 for a table of 10.
To top off the star-studded evening, Winter Olympic gold medallist Steven Bradbury will be master of ceremonies and will regale attendees with his stories of triumph and heartbreak.
Steven won gold for speed skating at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics.
The Commonwealth Bank Redland Retail Awards are currently in their ninth year, which is testament to the ongoing success of retail in the Redlands.
Naming Rights sponsor Commonwealth Bank has partnered with the awards for four consecutive years, further cementing its commitment to servicing local retailers.
Tickets can be purchased online via www.redlandchamber.org.au - click on the "Events" tab and choose "The Commonwealth Bank 2012 Redland Retail Awards" link.
Alternatively phone the Redland City Chamber of Commerce secretariat on 0478 202 306, or email admin@redlandcitychamber.org.au.
Final date for ticket purchases is July 20.