GraceKennedy–authorised representative for Western Union, Bill Express and Fx Trader–commemorated 16 years of operations this November with a very special gift, six of the top awards in the T&T advertising industry courtesy of their agency, Lonsdale Saatchi & Saatchi. The company, celebrating the 16th anniversary in grand style at the ballroom of the Crowne Plaza hotel on November 2, commenced operations in T&T in 1992 and has expanded to an ever growing network that stands currently at 58 locations. Acting country manager for GraceKennedy (Trinidad & Tobago), Ronald Thompson, pointed to the company's focus on customer service as vital to its success.
"The single thing which will ensure our continued success in this business is excellent customer service–that special relationship we foster with our consumers." Lonsdale's Western Union campaign, created on behalf of GraceKennedy, was a huge success at the Association of Advertising Agencies of T&T (AAATT) awards, dominating the financial services category and claiming the most coveted "Best of the Best Integrated Campaign" trophy.
The Western Union campaign, "It Matters," contributed to the 33 awards that made up Lonsdale's commanding total, giving them more than any other agency on the night.
GraceKennedy did some award-giving of its own, recognising excellence in service from its partner firms and their outstanding customer service representatives. Naipaul's Xtra Foods, Excellent Stores and Economy Supermarket were judged overall winners, with Naipaul's also taking first place in large and medium-sized categories. Dollar Value in Gasparillo won first place in the small category. Awards for excellent customer service representatives were in two categories. The first went to, Kerene Lopez of Economy Supermarket for the Western Union and Bill Express Category. The second category –Western Union, FX Trader and Bill Express –was won by Sabita Persad of Naipaul's in Chaguanas.