Civic Video franchisees recently received recognition for their blooming businesses at the companyÍs annual conference at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki in Hawaii. David, Michael and Paula Gianotti, from Civic Video Parks Centre, WA walked away with the Outstanding Franchisee of 2007-2008 award and a $10,000 travel prize.

ñI felt really stunned and honoured, it was hard to take it all inî said David Gianotti. The Gianotti brothers have been in the video industry for 19 years, first setting up a store in Bunbury and then opening the Parks Centre store five years ago.

ñYou have to focus on what youÍre doing and follow your guidelines and keep your staff motivated and remember the customer is always rightî, said Michael Gianotti.

Other nominees in this category were Michelle and Todd Nash from Civic Video Toormina, and Neville and Niree Fitsimmons from Civic Video Mt Isa.

The winners of a $5,000 travel prize and the Rookie Franchisee of 2007-2008 award were David and Naomi Belgrade, from Civic Video Newton Gardens, SA. A previous store manager when the outlet was company owned, David Belgrade bought the store two years ago. He has also worked as a franchise business manager for Civic Video.

Fellow nominees were Chris Hill of Civic Video Frankston South, Donna and Howard Simcock at Civic Video Albion Park, and Darren and Luke Sheldon from Civic Video Morely.

The record 250 attendees experienced fun and innovative workshops, guest speakers and the ï50s rock Ín roll themed gala dinner on the last night included an Elvis flown in from LA.