Blooms The Chemist’s 2025 Retail Managers Conference opened this year on National Sorry Day and ran during National Reconciliation Week, marking a meaningful moment to reflect on cultural connection and the unifying power of purpose.
Held on the Gold Coast, the three-day event, including the awards ceremony, united Retail Managers, Blooms Support Office team members, and supplier partners from across the country.
The conference opened with a Welcome to Country by Uncle John Graham, Traditional Custodian of the Gold Coast region.
This was followed by a powerful address from Blooms The Chemist Management Services Ltd CEO Emmanuel Vavoulas, who acknowledged the significance of the day and encouraged delegates to listen, learn, and take meaningful steps toward justice, equity, and unity.
With a sharp focus on retail productivity, this year’s conference delivered practical strategies to help leaders drive growth and performance, supported by a culture of engaged and empowered teams.
“In an increasingly competitive environment, the most successful pharmacy leaders are those who understand how productivity, culture, and care intersect,” said Emmanuel Vavoulas.
“This year’s conference highlighted how Blooms The Chemist owners and managers can optimise their operations to build stronger businesses, while also fostering connected, high-performing teams.”
Sessions featured insights into operational excellence, retail innovation, and team engagement, demonstrating how small changes in process and leadership can lead to measurable growth and improved store outcomes.
Alongside a dynamic trade fair showcasing innovations from over 51 supplier partners, the conference culminated in the Retail Manager Awards, celebrating excellence in pharmacy leadership across the network.
Erin Gatty from Blooms The Chemist Colac was awarded Retail Manager of the Year.
Other award winners included:
- Retail Manager of the Year: Erin Gatty – Blooms The Chemist Colac
- Retail Manager of the Year Runner-Up: Lauren Theodossiou – Blooms The Chemist Ballina
- Customer Service Winner: Renee Sewell – Blooms The Chemist Karabar
- Training Champion of the Year Winner: Emma Johns – Blooms The Chemist Goulburn Marketplace
- Supplier Award: Highest % Growth: Herbs of Gold
- Shining Light Award Recipients:
Shining light Region 1: Kate Tomkins – Warilla
Shining light Region 2: Sonya Conroy – Blooms The Chemist Mudgee
Shining light Region 3: Alison Hamilton – Blooms The Chemist Albury West End
Shining light Region 4: Luke Reckwell – Blooms The Chemist Maitland
Shining light Region 5: Bradley Robert – Blooms The Chemist Crows Nest
Shining light Region 6: Jodie Morris – Blooms The Chemist Kenmore
Shining light Region 7: Michelle Goode – Blooms The Chemist Geraldton
Blooms The Chemist’s 2025 Retail Managers Conference was proudly sponsored by:
- Symbion
- AFT Pharmaceuticals
- Aspen
- Beiersdorf Australia
- Caruso’s Natural Health
- Haleon
- Reckitt
- Vidacorp