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As evidenced by the finalists in the 2024 Eastside Business Awards, the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters is where to find exceptional providers in just about any sector.

The awards provide a platform for business recognition, highlighting the more than 7600 businesses, new and well-established, that service the area.

Mayor Robert Bria said the program offers the public an opportunity to show their appreciation for the small businesses.

“Each year, the Eastside Business Awards continue to gain interest and momentum and this year is proving to be another resounding success with a record number of local businesses nominated,” Bria said.

“To be an Eastside Business Award winner or finalist, shows that a business has had lasting impact not only on an individual, but also the wider community, and that is something to be immensely proud of.”

The finalists for this year’s awards have been announced and Bria said a new award has been introduced for three-time winners of a category.

“It’s exciting to be able to announce a new Hall of Fame recipient as well as a number of businesses who will be elevated to Legend status,” he said.

Businesses making the list of award finalists for the first time in 2024 include food manufacturer Prove Patisserie, as well as Cozy Hair Beauty Salon at Glynde and JAKS Hire & Event at Stepney.

Gelato Bello, a mainstay of Glynde’s food manufacturers, won last year’s Hall of Fame, which recognises businesses that have been operating in the council area for more than 20 years.

Marcus Nardone worked in Gelato Bello’s business for almost a decade before purchasing it two years ago.

He now has around 110 wholesale customers in South Australia and is starting to explore the market in Victoria.

Via a private label distributor, the product currently being stocked in about 100 Victorian supermarkets, while Nardone said “about half a dozen” wholesale customers were also placing orders.

“We’re not just a little retail shop in Glynde,” Nardone said.

The manufacturer also collaborates with businesses in and beyond the Norwood Payneham & St Peters council area.

A limoncello sorbet collaboration with Virginia gin distiller 36 Short was a hit at Adelaide Italian Festival events and other celebrations.

Gelato Bello is a member of the Food Secrets of Glynde program run by the Council, which takes visitors to many of the local food and beverage manufacturers.

“The Council is constantly thinking outside the square when it comes to supporting our local food, wine and manufacturing industries and the Eastside Business Awards are the perfect way to help those businesses to be recognised as some of the best food and beverage manufacturers in South Australia,” Bria said.

The winners of the Eastside Business Awards will be announced at the awards ceremony on 23 April 2024.