Giordano Ajman wins 'Best Fashion Store 2006'

The award ceremony, executed for the first time this year, was received with great enthusiasm as it gives employees a chance to gain recognition for their hard work and accomplishments throughout the year.

"We are proud to be named the Best Fashion Store. The newly launched awards system by MAF, is a pro active move to support its retailers and reward those that strive for excellence. What characterizes Giordano is our genuine desire for continuous self improvement. We always want to do better, offer more, and adopt best practices" stated Executive Director for Giordano, Middle East and Africa, Ishwar Chugani

The mall consists of 68 stores which were all divided into 11 different categories. Aside from Fashion, other categories included Best in Shoes and Sports, Best Restaurant/Café, and Retailer of the Year. Up against Giordano in the Fashion category were Promod, Hang Ten, and Pierre Cardin.

The selection process was described by Regional Marketing Manager for the Community Centres Sanjay Mehta, as both democratic and transparent with the decision being made by a "responsible group as opposed to one person's personal decision or bias".

Along with Mehta, the judging panel also included Jassim Al Khaja- General Manager, Ajman City Centre, C. Harigovind , Vice President of Finance at Ajman City Center, and Wayne Scherger- Vice President of Asset Management for MAF Shopping Mall.

In evaluating the different stores, judges looked at each contestant's sales performance over the past year, customer service philosophy, and operational compliance. For example, factors assessed included whether or not the store opened and closed on time, was free of financial debts, and was committed to providing excellent customer service to meet clients' needs. In addition, candidates were required to have traded for at least 12 months in order to be eligible.

The Annual General Meeting is held every year and the next one in Ajman is scheduled to be in February 2008.