One, two awards make a Trio

By Shaun Inguanzo
FAST food retailer Trios has won its second consecutive Fast Food Retailer of the Year Award at Dandenong Plaza’s annual ceremony and it all began with a menu makeover.
The Dandenong Plaza Retailer Awards were presented last month, with Trios scooping the prize for the second year in a row.
Trios owner, Wendy Almadinne, said the business sold a wide variety of fast food, but of the healthy variety.
Several years ago, items such as its popular wrap were buried in a menu of foods that were considered less healthy.
But Ms Almadinne said a quick menu and image change to promote healthier eating had resulted in success.
“We followed the market, everyone wanted to be healthy,” she said.
Ms Almadinne estimated that business had increased by 20 per cent since the menu change.
But also contributing to the business’ image was its dedication to customer service and her love for the job, she said.
“I enjoy my job and am passionate about the Trios brand,” she said.
Popular products include the wrap, baked potatoes, and the opportunity for customers to mix and match fillings for sandwiches.
The business is familyowned, with Ms Almadinne’s husband cooking all hot food.
Dandenong Plaza marketing manager Julie MacDougall said the awards were decided based on retailers’ sales performance, store presentation, merchandising and good management.