Celebrating The FreshChoice Awards 2025

Over 100 franchisees and 40 supplier partners from across New Zealand gathered together at the celebratory event. With 27 awards given out the evening was marked with excitement, laughter and a sense of pride and achievement.

 A big winner from the night was FreshChoice Merivale who won the meat, bakery delicatessen department of the year, Store Manager of the Year and Large Store of the Year. Merivale’s team consistently demonstrated excellence, offering a wide range, high-quality, and personalised service. What secured their victory was the commitment, innovation and repeated exceeding of expectations. Owner operator, Craig Grant, remarks on what this win means for them and the team. “I’m humbled and proud to be working with such a committed team who come in everyday and go that extra step to make shopping at FreshChoice Merivale an enjoyable experience”.

Despite having only opened last year, FreshChoice Lake Hāwea was recognised for its outstanding performance, winning Small Store of the Year. The store impressed with its exceptional service, strong community engagement, and consistent dedication to delivering the FreshChoice values. Owner-operator, Matt and Dixie Gallaher, expressed their delight at receiving the award, stating, "We're incredibly honoured to be acknowledged. This win is a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team who strive to make FreshChoice Lake Hāwea a welcoming and vital part of our local community".

Speaking on the night, FreshChoice Executive General Manager, Tim Cartwright highlights the importance of taking time to recognise and celebrate the FreshChoice team and community. “These yearly awards shine the spotlight on our incredible team and supplier partners. It gives us the opportunity to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and outstanding achievements of our owner-operators and their teams, the remarkable contributions of individuals, and the vital partnerships we have with our suppliers”.

“With 78 stores across the country we have exceptional people living, breathing and delivering the FreshChoice values across New Zealand. Each and every one of them play a crucial role in the continued success of the brand. It fills me with immense pride to bring so many incredible people together and to celebrate their amazing achievements”.

The full list of winners is below: