By James Wells

MELBOURNE: Harvey Norman awarded supplier of the year awards to Fisher & Paykel, Sunbeam and Panasonic last night at the company’s gala dinner.

To judge the awards, Harvey Norman proprietors were all given one vote to name the best supplier in three categories – whitegoods, portable appliances and audio visual.

Fisher & Paykel was named as best supplier of whitegoods ahead of other strong contenders – Electrolux Home Products, Samsung, Miele and LG Electronics.

Sunbeam was voted the best supplier of small appliances ahead of its competitors Dyson and Housewares International – the parent company of the Breville and Kambrook brands and the distributor of Philips shavers.

Panasonic won the award for best supplier in the audio visual category ahead of strong brands Sony, LG and Samsung as well as Yamaha, Pioneer and Philips.

A fourth award was presented to Flexi Group/Ezy Way as best supplier in the accessories, attachments and services category.

Samsung was presented with an award for best stand at the Harvey Norman Expo held at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre.