The awards were handed to them in recognition of trading excellence within the Old Mutual Properties retail portfolio by OMP managing directorIan Watt during an African-style themed evening in Pretoria.

Red Square store manager Zonitha Strydom accepted the award on behalf of Vincent Park Red Square as the top performer in the country in the health and beauty category.

"I'm still shaking, I can't believe this," said Strydom.

Experilab owner Lynne Thompson was recognised in the Special Category for the second year running for her innovative store.

Five other Vincent Park tenants travelled to Menlyn Park in Pretoria, each achieving places in the top three in their respective categories.

They were Ellen Bester, owner of Deere's Country Delights (the BiltongBar); Val Hammond, owner of Wesleys' here; Sash Lingham from the Curry Muncher; Lynette Uys of Travel Gear; and Minda Pierskalla from Woolworths.

"I am thrilled about the excellent performance of our tenants. Thisgoes to show that retailers in the smaller regions can compete with retailers in the major regions," said centre manager Joseph Parsley.

"Vincent Park will continue to strive to provide excellent customerservice, since our customers are major stakeholders and have contributed to the successful achievements of the Vincent Park retailers."

Daily Dispatch