2022 TOURISM OPERATOR OF THE YEAR NOMINATION FORM
Nominations are now invited for the 2022 Tourism Operator of the Year Award.
Nominations are invited from any member of the HVWTA that is a tourism-based operator - apart from Cellar Doors or Accommodation operators who are eligible for the other awards - within Hunter Valley Wine Country. The Tourism Operator award will be decided through a Mystery Shopping process, and the cost to nominate for this Award is $300 (+GST) for members. All nominees will be visited anonymously by a Mystery Shopper, and provided with a detailed report which can be utilized to assist entrants with their on-going marketing activities and assist with future planning of your procedures within your business.
Criteria
The public perception and profile of the Hunter Valley is influenced by experiences our visitors get to enjoy. This award recognises excellence provided by a Hunter Valley Tourism Operator. To be eligible for entry the Tourism Operator must be open for visitation with or without an appointment or be a bookable experience (inc. online) and demonstrate:
- The discernible promotion of the Hunter Valley region.
- Active involvement in tourism industry activities and events.
- Tourism Operator staff must exhibit exemplary knowledge of the Hunter Valley, and the ability to sell the Hunter Valley brand.
The External Judging Process
The Mystery Shopper will award points across three main areas. These are:
The Call - a phone call to your business to enquire about your product/ offering and the Region.
The Visit - the mystery shopper will visit your business to experience what you offer.
The Online Presence - the mystery shopper will evaluate your effectiveness, consistency and timeliness of your online presence.
More specifically;
- Customer Service (major point weighting), including welcome and overall friendliness, experience, local knowledge, and positive referral to other Hunter Valley businesses.
- External presentation of signage, entry, parking, landscaping etc.
- Internal facilities including layout of shop, amenities, cleanliness of bus etc.
- Presentation of offerings, e.g., digital marketing strategy, up selling to include add ons, such as lunch or dinner etc. and other direct marketing, and complimentary services.
Nominations must be received by Friday 11th March 2022.